IIT Delhi Makes AI and ML Courses Mandatory Across All Programs
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D) has introduced a significant update to its curriculum. Starting July of the next academic session, every undergraduate and postgraduate program will require students to take at least one course in Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Learning (ML). This change comes after a comprehensive curriculum review conducted after 12 years, aiming to provide students with a clear and practical pathway to AI education aligned with current industry trends.
Mandatory AI and ML Courses for All Students
Each of the 19 undergraduate and 42 postgraduate programs at IIT Delhi will include a dedicated AI or ML paper. While the institute has offered AI and ML courses before, this marks the first time these subjects are compulsory for all students. According to IIT Delhi Director Rangan Banerjee, every department must ensure their students graduate with a foundational understanding of AI and ML. This decision followed extensive feedback from both students and alumni.
The courses are designed to connect AI principles with students’ specific fields. Examples include offerings like “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence,” “AI for Computational Biology,” and “Applied Mechanics to Textile and Fibre Engineering.” Prof. Narayanan D. Kurur, Dean of Academics, explained that the courses will introduce AI concepts relevant to each discipline. For instance, the postgraduate course “Machine Learning for Textile and Fibre Engineering” focuses on applying ML to yarn and fabric engineering as well as textile chemical processing.
Emphasis on Ethical Use of AI
Alongside technical skills, IIT Delhi is emphasizing the ethical application of AI. Associate Dean of Curriculum Prof. Shouri Chatterjee highlighted that students will learn how to use AI responsibly, which is essential as AI tools become more integrated into academic and professional work.
AI Usage Among Students and Institutional Guidelines
AI usage among students is already widespread at IIT Delhi. A 2024 survey involving 427 students found that 80% have used generative AI tools, with around 81% using these tools multiple times per week. To guide this growing engagement, the Director formed a committee to establish rules for AI use in teaching, research, and examinations. The committee’s report, released in October 2024, helps set a framework for the responsible and productive integration of AI across the institute.
Implications for Education Professionals
This move by IIT Delhi signals a shift in how educational institutions are incorporating AI and ML into their curricula. For educators, it underlines the importance of embedding AI knowledge within various disciplines, not just computer science. Teaching AI in context helps students apply these skills effectively in their chosen fields.
Education professionals can look to this model for ideas on curriculum development and ethical AI instruction. As AI tools become commonplace, structured teaching and clear guidelines will be necessary to ensure students use AI in ways that support learning and innovation.
For those interested in expanding their own AI and ML knowledge or integrating AI courses into their teaching, platforms like Complete AI Training offer a variety of courses tailored to different skills and industries.
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