Sri Lanka Integrates AI into National School Curriculum through Partnership with Microsoft

In a significant move towards modernizing education, the Ministry of Education (MOE) of Sri Lanka has partnered with Microsoft to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into the country’s National School Curriculum. This initiative, marked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on March 20, 2024, aims to prepare Sri Lankan students for the digital future.

Key Highlights:

• Partnership Overview: The MOE and Microsoft’s collaboration focuses on enriching the Sri Lankan education system by integrating AI technologies starting from grade eight onwards. The MoU also includes providing Microsoft 365 for seamless communication among students and educators.
• Pilot Program: A tailored curriculum developed by Microsoft Education teams and the National Institute of Education (NIE) will be launched in twenty schools across all nine provinces. This initiative adopts a “train the trainer” approach to ensure widespread knowledge dissemination.
• Signatories: The agreement was endorsed by Ms. Wasantha Perera (Secretary, MOE) and Harsha Randeny (Microsoft Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives) at the Presidential Secretariat, with notable attendees including US Ambassador Julie J. Chung, Minister of Education Dr. Susil Premajayantha, State Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath, and Puneet Chandok (President, Microsoft India and South Asia).
• Objectives: This partnership aims to democratize AI access, enhance educational quality, and equip students with relevant skills for a rapidly evolving global landscape. It underscores a commitment to a digital-first curriculum that prioritizes future-ready skills.
• Statements: Dr. Susil Premajayantha expressed optimism about the role of AI in elevating education standards and preparing students for future challenges. Harsha Randeny emphasized the role of students and teachers as catalysts for transformation and highlighted Microsoft’s dedication to supporting Sri Lanka’s AI journey.

About Microsoft:

Microsoft is a global technology company focused on digital transformation through intelligent cloud and edge technologies. It strives to empower individuals and organizations worldwide to achieve more.

Implications:

This partnership between the MOE of Sri Lanka and Microsoft signifies a proactive step towards integrating advanced technologies into education. By preparing students with AI and ML knowledge, Sri Lanka aims to foster a generation capable of contributing significantly to both national and global technological advancements.