Odisha govt to launch tech camps for students on AI, cybersecurity, and robotics

The Odisha government will soon launch a series of special training camps across the state to train students in advanced technologies and create awareness about online safety.

According to official sources, the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), the technical directorate under the Electronics and Information Technology department, will spearhead the initiative.

It will work in coordination with the School and Mass Education (SME) and Higher Education departments. An expert agency will also be brought on board to conduct the camps at both school and college levels.

The training sessions will focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, virtual reality (VR), data science, and cybersecurity.

These areas are rapidly transforming the job market, but awareness and preparedness among students in the state remain limited.

"There is a significant gap in student exposure to new-age technologies and their career potential. This program is designed to bridge that divide and offer practical experience in real-world applications," said an OCAC official.

The cybersecurity component of the training aims to equip students with essential skills to protect personal data, identify online threats, prevent cybercrimes, and use digital tools responsibly.

"The training will help build a strong foundation in online safety, ethical hacking, password protection, and phishing awareness," the official added.

The state plans to organize the camps in at least 100 higher secondary schools and colleges annually. Each session will last around six hours and train about 120 students.

The curriculum will include hands-on activities in IoT and robotics using sensors, motor controls, and functional robots.

Students will also learn how AI and ML function, explore the use of chatbots for academics and career planning, and experiment with AI tools relevant to everyday life.

OCAC aims to create a meaningful impact through these camps by fostering digital literacy, promoting career readiness, and building a culture of safe technology use among young learners.