AI teacher robot rolls into Udupi govt school
Udupi, April 2026:
In a significant step towards integrating technology into classrooms, a government primary school in Karnataka’s Udupi district has introduced an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered teacher robot, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in a state-run school.
The innovation was launched at the Vandse Government Higher Primary School in Byndoor, a 111-year-old institution that has recently undergone a remarkable transformation. The AI robot, named ‘Iris’, is designed to assist teachers and enhance interactive learning among students.
Standing over five feet tall, Iris is an AI-enabled voice assistant equipped with robotics and generative AI capabilities. It operates through an application-based system and includes interactive learning modules aimed at making classroom sessions more engaging and technology-driven.
Developed by Makerlabs Edutech under the NITI Aayog’s Atal Tinkering Lab initiative, the robot is capable of communicating in more than 20 languages, making it accessible to students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. It can answer academic queries, assist in teaching concepts, and support teachers in delivering lessons effectively.
School authorities clarified that the AI robot is not intended to replace human teachers but to function as a supportive educational tool. “The idea is to expose students in rural government schools to AI-based learning and make education more interactive,” officials said.
The initiative has been funded through community support, with approximately ₹3.5 lakh invested in the AI system. The school has also seen broader infrastructure development, including smart classrooms, projectors, and a computer lab, as part of efforts to modernize education and compete with private institutions.
Once on the verge of closure due to declining admissions, the school has witnessed a revival over the past decade. Enrollment has now increased to over 300 students, and the introduction of the AI teacher is expected to further boost interest among parents and students.
Education experts believe that such initiatives represent a major shift in India’s technical and digital education landscape. By introducing AI at the primary level, schools are preparing students for a future driven by technology, innovation, and digital skills.
The move reflects a broader national trend of integrating artificial intelligence into education, ensuring that even students in rural areas gain exposure to emerging technologies.
