Sikkim brings AI-based learning to 71 government schools

The Sikkim government has introduced an AI-powered learning programme across 71 government schools in Gangtok district to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy among students.

Called AI-FunZone, the programme is being implemented in collaboration with the EkStep Foundation under an agreement signed in April 2026. It covers schools in the Khamdong, Nandok and Martam blocks and is aimed at students in Classes 3 to 5. Reports based on the Education Department's statement put the number of students covered at around 2,100.

The programme provides learning support in English, Nepali and Mathematics through short, personalised practice sessions during the regular school day.

How AI-FunZone will work

Students will have a dedicated 60-minute AI-FunZone session as part of their school timetable. They will use computers or shared digital devices for daily practice.

For language learning, the system can listen to children as they read and identify areas where they face difficulties. It can then adapt subsequent activities according to their learning level.

In Mathematics, the system can identify specific errors made by students and provide practice focused on those areas.

The programme uses computers, graphics, audio and interactive activities to give students opportunities for independent practice and remedial learning.

Teachers will continue to lead classrooms

The Education Department has said that AI will be used as a support tool rather than a replacement for teachers.

Teachers will have access to a real-time dashboard showing individual student progress. This is intended to help them identify learning gaps and decide where students need additional classroom support.

Around 300 resource persons from the three participating blocks have already been trained for the programme, according to the department.

The programme does not use examinations, rankings or comparisons between students. Instead, AI-generated assessments are intended to help teachers understand individual learning gaps and address them during regular classroom teaching.

Digital infrastructure remains a challenge

The initiative requires computers or tablets, headsets and high-speed internet connectivity. The Education Department has acknowledged that some standalone primary and junior high schools have shortages of the required digital infrastructure.

According to the department, students and teachers have responded positively to the programme, while school heads have found it relatively easy to implement without adding significant administrative work.