Beyond Blackboards: UNESCO’s AI Drive Turns Vocational Classrooms into Innovation Hubs

Image Source: The Economic Times

UNESCO has launched an intensive AI training initiative for India’s vocational educators, aiming to modernise classrooms and equip students with future-ready skills in alignment with the National Education Policy 2020.

Hands-On Learning in Bhopal

- From June 22–24, 2025, 29 educators from PSSCIVE and RIE Bhopal participated in immersive workshops on
AI fundamentals, digital pedagogy, and classroom applications
- Trainers from Tablet Academy, supported by Microsoft and KPMG, introduced tools like Microsoft Learn, Autodraw, and Teachable Machine to simplify complex AI concepts
- Sessions focused on integrating AI into subjects like Food Technology, Dairy Technology, and Packaging through virtual labs and simulations

Transforming Teaching Practices

- Educators explored AI-powered lesson planning, interactive simulations, and digital assessments to foster student-centered learning
- The training emphasized low-code tools and accessible platforms, enabling teachers to implement AI without advanced technical expertise
- Participants reported increased confidence in using AI to enhance engagement and bridge equipment gaps in vocational labs

Strategic Vision and Global Goals

- The programme is part of UNESCO’s Global Skills Academy, which aims to train 10 million learners worldwide by 2029
- It supports India’s demographic dividend by preparing youth for AI-driven economies and dignified employment
- The initiative builds on commitments made during the April 2025 International Conference on TVET and Skills Development

Looking Ahead

- Future phases will expand training to more UNEVOC centres across India
- UNESCO plans to integrate AI literacy into national TVET curricula and teacher certification frameworks

Sources: UNESCO, WebWire, IIEP-UNESCO, MSN India, UNEVOC.