Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur
Kundapur, Apr 12: The Government Model Higher Primary School in Vandse, under the Byndoor educational block, has once again garnered statewide attention by becoming the first government school in Karnataka to introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI) robot teacher named ‘Iris’.
This milestone, achieved through a public-private partnership, marks a significant leap in integrating modern technology into the rural education system.
State-of-the-art learning
Developed in collaboration with Maker Labs Edutech Private Limited, ‘Iris’ was first introduced in a Kerala school earlier this year. The robot is designed to provide an interactive and immersive learning experience. Draped in a traditional saree, the AI teacher can converse in over 20 languages, answer complex academic questions ranging from LKG to Class 10, and even perform gestures like shaking hands with students.
Built under the Atal Tinkering Lab scheme initiated by NITI Aayog, Iris features voice assistance, interactive learning modules, and mobility. The robot, which reportedly costs approximately Rs 3.5 lac, is currently being integrated into the school curriculum, with staff receiving training on its management.
Impact on education
Education experts believe that such technology-driven initiatives are essential in the current competitive era. "The introduction of an AI teacher serves as a bridge between traditional teaching and modern digitalization. It is expected to pique students' interest in science and technology while acting as a supportive tool for human educators," stated an official involved in the project.
Observers noted that the touch of modernity is a major step forward for government institutions. "Vandse government school is effectively competing with private institutions. The addition of an AI teacher, made possible through the support of donors, will significantly enhance the quality of education and help students adapt to technological advancements," remarked a local stakeholder.
A legacy of excellence
With a rich history spanning 111 years, the Vandse Government Model Higher Primary School has consistently been a model for rural education. Since its centenary celebration in 2016, the school has seen massive development under the leadership of the Sri Mookambika Charitable Trust, alongside the SDMC, alumni association, and teachers.
Currently, the school caters to 334 students from 12 surrounding villages. It offers high-quality English medium education, school transport, and extracurricular activities such as Karate, Bharatanatyam, Abacus, and Music—all free of cost, including books, uniforms, and shoes. The introduction of 'Iris' is the latest in a series of tech-savvy upgrades, which previously included computer labs and projector-based learning.