Govt says yet to make Artificial Intelligence a separate program, being taught as part of Computer Applications
Srinagar, Mar 15 : As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries, economies, and societies worldwide, the educational institutions across the globe and within India are rapidly adopting AI as a separate academic discipline. However, Jammu and Kashmir remains a step behind, as the Union Territory’s Higher Education Department has yet to introduce AI as a standalone program in its Government Degree Colleges.
During the ongoing discussion on grants during the current budget session in Jammu and Kashmir assembly, this revelation came to light in response to a query by Javid Riyaz, Member of the Legislative Assembly, regarding the introduction of job-oriented and skill-based subjects, including AI, in higher education institutions. While the department confirmed that AI is being taught as part of the Computer Applications curriculum, it has not been launched as a separate program, citing its status as a “new and developing area of learning.”
The delay in introducing AI as a dedicated subject stands in stark contrast to the global and national trend. Universities and colleges worldwide, including in India, are increasingly offering specialized AI programs to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in this transformative field. From healthcare and finance to agriculture and defense, AI is revolutionizing industries, making it imperative for educational institutions to equip students with specialized knowledge and skills.
In India, several states have already integrated AI as a separate subject in their higher education systems, recognizing its potential to drive innovation and economic growth. However, Jammu and Kashmir’s cautious approach has left students in the region at a potential disadvantage, as they may lack access to the same level of specialized training available elsewhere.
Furthermore, the Higher Education Department in its reply stated that its implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 has brought positive changes, with job-oriented and skill-based courses being introduced in Government Degree Colleges. Business Management programs, for instance, are widely available. Yet, the absence of a dedicated AI program raises questions about the region’s readiness to embrace emerging technologies and prepare its youth for the future job market.
Experts argue that while integrating AI into existing Computer Applications courses is a step in the right direction, it is not enough to keep pace with the rapid advancements in the field. “AI is no longer just an emerging technology; it is a critical driver of innovation and economic growth. Students need specialized training to compete in a globalized economy,” said Jigyasa Gupta, a Research Scholar working on the emergence of Artificial Intelligence in India’s digital landscape—(KNO)
