VISAKHAPATNAM: The State government, in partnership with Cyient Foundation, has set up Artificial Intelligence (AI), STEM, and Robotics laboratories in 50 government schools across Visakhapatnam district. Minister for IT, Education and Human Resources Development Nara Lokesh inaugurated the lab at Chandrampalem Government School and formally launched the remaining labs across the district. The initiative, costing `8 crore was part of Cyient’s CSR programme
Speaking at the event, Lokesh said the introduction of AI labs would help students prepare for the technological changes shaping the global economy. “Past industrial revolutions created opportunities through printing, electricity, aviation, vaccines, and IT. AI now represents the next stage, capable of making routine work more efficient and finding solutions to practical challenges,” he stated.
He cited an example from Chandrampalem school, where students used AI tools to design a system for water-efficient farming. He encouraged students to set career goals, whether as professionals, entrepreneurs, or public servants and stressed the importance of persistence, drawing from his own political setbacks and later success.
The Minister credited Cyient Foundation and its Founder-Chairman BVR Mohan Reddy for supporting the initiative. “Cyient has invested `8 crore from its CSR funds to establish these labs, which will provide students with early exposure to AI and related technologies,” Lokesh noted.
The IT minister also outlined reforms in the state’s education sector including curriculum and examination restructuring, reducing non-teaching work for teachers, and the introduction of large-scale Parent-Teacher Meetings.
Recruitment through the DSC has also been initiated, with appointees expected to join by September,” he noted.
The Minister proposed forming a School Education Advisory Council to strengthen government education and suggested that Reddy serve as its Chairperson.
He emphasised that schools should remain free from politics, noting that no political images appear in textbooks.
During his visit to Chandrampalem, Lokesh inspected projects developed by students, including smart farming systems, robotic arms, AI explorer kits, and digital dice.
He commended tenth-grade students Arunashree and Bhagyalakshmi for their smart farming project.
Addressing the gathering, BVR Mohan Reddy stated that AI would play a role in the future for children to be equipped with technological skills.
Cyient executives, senior TDP leaders including Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao, and others were present.