Guwahati, May 15: The Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) has introduced three new elective subjects—Artificial Intelligence (AI), Financial Literacy, and Sign Language—for Higher Secondary (HS) students starting from the current academic year.

The announcement was made by Education Minister Ranoj Pegu during the inauguration of a three-day residential AI training programme for school teachers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati on Wednesday. The event was attended by senior officials including the ASSEB Chairman and Vice Chairman, along with the Director of IIT Guwahati.

During the event, Dr. Pegu also released a specially designed AI textbook, developed jointly by experts from IIT Guwahati and Dibrugarh University. He stated that the inclusion of these subjects will help students gain essential life skills, prepare for the digital economy, and promote inclusivity through sign language education.

Later in the day, Dr. Pegu chaired a review meeting with officials of the Department of School Education at Janata Bhawan to discuss budget allocations for the 2025–26 academic year under the Directorates of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The meeting covered key schemes including the distribution of bicycles to Class IX students, implementation of the Chief Minister’s Nijut Moina Scheme, free admission drives, assessment of newly upgraded higher secondary schools, and the upgradation of 25 Bodo-medium ME English schools into Model High Schools. Discussions also included honorarium and career progression for tutors, and the selection process for Head Teachers and Principals.

Dr. Pegu emphasized the timely and effective implementation of all initiatives to ensure comprehensive development of school education across Assam.