AI and robotics courses for four Corporation schools in South Chennai

Nebula SparkED, a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programme including robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), was launched on Monday (September 1, 2025) at the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) High School, Adyar, by South Chennai Member of Parliament Thamizhachi Thangapandian.

The project, similar to the T.N. Spark initiative that began in July and introduced an AI curriculum in schools, focuses on the dos and don’ts while using technology and the safe use of software tools, said Sudha Shunmugam, managing trustee of EduRight Foundation, which co-runs the programme. After the classes, small-scale inter-school competitions will be conducted, she added.

Keerthi Jeyaraj, president of the foundation, said four Chennai Corporation schools in Kotturpuram, Thiruvanmiyur, Maduvinkarai, and Adyar will pilot this programme in the first phase.

Ms. Thangapandian said the project trial was a success in her alma mater school in Mallankinaru of Virudhunagar, and hence, it was taken up in the South Chennai region. “This project is to kindle scientific thinking and critical inquiry as emphasised in the Indian Constitution, rather than mythology,” she said.

“Experiments are more fun than regular classes. The room is lively with all of us [students] trying out new things each time,” said Swetha, a Class VI student of the school, who wants to become either a scientist or an IPS officer.

Kumudhavalli, another student, said, “STEM courses are helping me get closer to my goal of becoming a doctor.”

Velachery MLA J.M.H. Assaan Maulaana, GCC Regional Deputy Commissioner (South) Aftab Rasool, Adyar Zone Ward Committee Chairman Durai Raj, Ward 173 Councillor Subhashini Durai, school staff, and officials were present.