CBSE Launches AI and Computational Thinking Curriculum for Classes 3–8 from 2026–27, Announces Teacher Training Framework

New Delhi, April 10, 2026:
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the introduction of a structured curriculum on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students of Classes 3 to 8, beginning from the 2026–27 academic session.

In an official notification issued on April 9, the board also declared “Computational Thinking and Understanding AI” as the central training theme for the current academic year, signalling a major push towards future-ready education in schools.

Focus on Future Skills and NEP Alignment

The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, aiming to strengthen students’ logical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of emerging technologies.

CBSE stated that the curriculum is designed to help learners identify patterns, think systematically, and develop awareness around the ethical use of artificial intelligence across real-world contexts.

At the launch of Computational Thinking and Artificial Intelligence (CT & AI) Curriculum of CBSE https://t.co/h3KUFiOR3t

— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) April 1, 2026

Key Training Themes for Schools

Schools will organise training activities and workshops around multiple sub-themes, including:

• Foundations of Computational Thinking and AI readiness
• Progressive learning approaches from basic concepts to abstraction
• Role of Mathematics in AI and computational skills
• Interdisciplinary application of CT across subjects
• Real-world use of AI
• Assessment strategies and pedagogy
• Ethics and responsible use of AI

The board emphasised integrating these concepts across subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, and Languages.

Workshops and Teacher Training Framework

CBSE has outlined a multi-level training structure to support implementation:

• District-Level Workshops (DLDs):
  Schools can organise one-day offline workshops, individually or in collaboration through Sahodaya School Complexes. These sessions will count as six hours of Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
• Expert Sessions:
  Half-day sessions (three CPD hours) may be conducted by internal or external experts, either online or offline.
• Regional Workshops:
  CBSE will conduct orientation programmes through its Centres of Excellence (CoEs). Teachers can register online by paying a fee of ₹700.

Schools are responsible for organising workshops, selecting topics, inviting experts, and maintaining proper training records.

National-Level Showcase and Participation

As part of the rollout, schools must shortlist the top three presentations or papers from district-level workshops. These entries will be evaluated at the national level, with selected works potentially showcased at national teacher conferences.

The board expects these initiatives to promote project-based learning, encourage interest in coding, data science, and mathematics, and build a strong foundation in ethical technology use among students.

Encouragement for Schools

CBSE has urged all affiliated schools to actively participate in the programme throughout the academic session by organising workshops, hosting expert discussions, and nominating teachers for regional training.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on official notifications and publicly available information. Schools and educators are advised to refer to CBSE’s official circulars and guidelines for detailed implementation procedures.