32 govt schools to have info tech labs

The UT Education Department is in the process of setting up of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) labs in 32 government schools through Samagra Shiksha Scheme at a cost of Rs 2.04 crore. In addition, there will be around 500 computers and 100 smart classrooms for strengthening of these labs in government schools at a cost of 4 crore (approx). The Rotary Club has also donated 30 computers to six government middle schools.

The department is improving digital infrastructure in government schools. During the last academic year, the department had disposed of 2,000 old computers and other IT equipment worth Rs 36 lakh and procured 800 desktop computers, along with other IT equipment, for 65 government schools and 50 computers for the office at a cost of Rs 3.65 crore.

Besides, CCTV surveillance system was also installed in 24 government schools at a cost of Rs 2 crore. Meanwhile, a Vidya Samiksha Kendra (a large video wall along with other IT system) has also been set up at the directorate level at a cost of Rs 2 crore, which is a digital infrastructure ecosystem that helps administrators to effectively monitor the progress of school education through data and technology.

The department is now in the process of implementing attendance of staff through AI Facial Recognition App — PM Poshan Monitoring and Swachhta Monitoring through AI App. For this, funds totalling Rs 10 lakh have been received and the process is likely to be introduced in January 2025. The app will also compare the quality of food through AI and will display the results.