Shillong, June 9: Meghalaya Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has stressed the need for the state to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies in schools, saying Meghalaya cannot afford to lag behind in the rapidly evolving digital age.
Speaking to reporters, Rymbui said the government is exploring ways to integrate AI and modern teaching methods into the education system, but acknowledged that the shortage of trained teachers remains a major challenge.
“We have to catch up and not only catch up, but also move with the new-age technology and new-age way of teaching. That is why we are trying to bring about change,” the minister said.
However, he noted that introducing AI education across schools is easier said than done, as the state currently lacks qualified personnel to teach the subject.
“If AI is introduced into the curriculum, the question is who will teach it. We need to partner with institutions and use technology to overcome this challenge,” he said.
Rymbui ruled out the possibility of appointing dedicated AI teachers or professors, stating that technology-driven solutions would be more practical given the fast-changing nature of the field.
“We cannot appoint AI teachers or AI professors, but we have to use technology wherever possible because technology itself becomes obsolete within 10 to 15 years. But we have to move forward,” he added.
The Education Minister also pointed out that the Government of India has recognised the importance of expanding learning opportunities in emerging technologies and is encouraging states to prepare students for the future.
He said Meghalaya is actively examining different options and partnerships to modernise its education system and equip students with skills relevant to the changing technological landscape.
“Everything is on the table, but we have to move ahead. How we move ahead will become clearer in the future,” Rymbui said.
The minister’s remarks come amid growing discussions on integrating artificial intelligence, digital learning tools, and technology-based education into school curricula across the country.
