AI and Robotics Labs to Empower 50 Government Schools in Vizag

In a significant move to elevate STEM education in Visakhapatnam, Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao announced on June 28, 2025, that 50 government schools in Vizag will be equipped with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics laboratories. Scheduled to launch in the second week of July, the initiative is being funded by the SAIL Foundation, the CSR division of Saint Software Company, with an investment of ₹8 crore.

The new labs aim to provide practical training to over 25,000 students, specifically from grades VII to X, initially within the Bheemunipatnam constituency as a pilot program. If successful, the project may be expanded across Andhra Pradesh. MLA Rao emphasized that the program aligns with the broader educational reforms spearheaded by the state’s Ministry of IT and Human Resource Development, led by Nara Lokesh. It's designed to prepare students from rural and semi-urban backgrounds for national-level technological competitions, while equipping them with future-ready skills.

Apart from AI and robotics instruction, the MLA highlighted ongoing efforts under the ‘Thalli Ki Vandanam’ scheme, which supports mothers in enrolling their children in schools. Over ₹10,000 crore has been disbursed, benefiting 6.7 million students.

Experts laud the announcement as a major leap toward bridging the digital divide. By integrating hands-on, machine-based learning in public schools, the initiative promises to cultivate a strong foundation in computational thinking, robotics integration, and problem-solving among Vizag's youth—key ingredients for building India’s next generation of tech innovators.

The initiative is expected to not only enhance the educational experience but also prepare students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. With the support of the SAIL Foundation, these AI and robotics labs will serve as a catalyst for innovation and skill development, ensuring that students from Vizag are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the AI and robotics labs in Vizag schools?

The labs are designed to provide practical training in AI and robotics to students, preparing them for national-level technological competitions and equipping them with future-ready skills.

Who is funding the initiative?

The SAIL Foundation, the CSR division of Saint Software Company, is funding the initiative with an investment of ₹8 crore.

How many students will benefit from this initiative?

Over 25,000 students, specifically from grades VII to X, will benefit from the AI and robotics labs in 50 government schools in Vizag.

What is the 'Thalli Ki Vandanam' scheme?

The 'Thalli Ki Vandanam' scheme supports mothers in enrolling their children in schools, with over ₹10,000 crore disbursed, benefiting 6.7 million students.

How does this initiative align with broader educational reforms?

The program aligns with the broader educational reforms spearheaded by the state’s Ministry of IT and Human Resource Development, led by Nara Lokesh, aiming to bridge the digital divide and prepare students for the future.