MoU for Digital Transformation of Tribal Schools

Context

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MTA) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Microsoft to support the digital transformation of schools.

Key highlights of the MOU

• The initiative will be implemented in schools under the Ministry such as Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) and Ashram Schools.
• AI skills: Microsoft will provide AI curriculum to tribal students in both English and Hindi at all EMRS schools under the Ministry to skill educators and students for next-generation technologies including Artificial Intelligence.  
• These schools will be equipped with the technology, training and tools that is required to transform them into Microsoft Showcase School.
• Significance: This program will provide readiness, preparedness to students at various international forums.
• Students would get the required skill through digital transformation and this would support that AI and coding being a part of the curriculum.
• This initiative will be helpful to the tribal students for maintaining continuity in their education in the lockdown period.
• Students will also be trained and exposed to gamified environments on Minecraft to help build design thinking skills.
• To enable inclusion and access, Microsoft will make AI curriculum available to the schools and students in both English and Hindi.
• Teachers training: 5000 teachers nominated by the ministry across these schools would also be provided with professional training.
• The program will also offer opportunities for teachers to earn professional e-badges and e-certificates from the Microsoft Education Centre
• Support: Ministry will mentor on projects that involve AI applications for the societal good and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also.