AICTE sets up expert panel to include AI in Indian educational curricula

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has established an expert committee to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and applied AI into various academic programs beyond traditional computer science degrees, marking a significant step in the transformation of technical education in India.

The committee includes AI specialists from IITs, NITs, and other top universities, and is chaired by Anand Deshpande, Managing Director of Persistent Systems.

The goal is to encourage the lateral expansion of AI in fields such as electrical engineering, BBA, BCA, and more.

“We are forming a committee to introduce AI across all programs, especially Applied AI,” said AICTE Chairman Prof TG Sitharam.

“The idea is to spread AI and related curricula across disciplines so that every student—regardless of their field—gains foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence and data analytics,” he added.

AICTE, India's top technical school regulatory body, has already updated the syllabi for several programs to include AI components.

“We have created new curricula for BBA and BCA and introduced AI in electrical engineering. Our goal is for everyone to understand AI and data analytics,” Prof Sitharam explained.

Recognizing the critical role of educators, AICTE has made faculty training a priority to ensure the successful implementation of AI-focused modules.

“Our teachers need to be trained not only in teaching AI but also in adapting to how AI is changing the learning environment—such as how students now submit AI-generated assignments. We need to evolve the way we frame questions and evaluate learning,” the chairman said.

In line with its mission, AICTE has declared 2025 as the "Year of Artificial Intelligence" and is launching several programs to raise awareness and build capabilities.

Over 40 million students and more than 14,000 colleges in India will benefit from AI education as part of this ambitious initiative.

Key components of the initiative include faculty development programs, AI awareness campaigns, and partnerships with leading technology companies.

Every two years, AICTE revises academic frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements through a comprehensive curriculum revision process involving expert panels.

“Curriculum revision is a detailed process that includes expert consultations. We repeat this process every two years to ensure our curricula remain relevant,” Prof Sitharam emphasized.

With this strategic initiative, AICTE aims to future-proof India's technical education system and equip students across all disciplines with the skills necessary to thrive in an AI-driven world.