In a major push to digitise education and enhance learning outcomes, the Uttar Pradesh government is investing nearly Rs. 325 crore to develop a state-wide network of smart classrooms in urban areas. Spearheaded by the Urban Development Department, the initiative aims to align the state’s school education system with the evolving digital ecosystem.
Over 2,700 smart classrooms are being set up under the programme, of which nearly 1,780 have already been completed and are operational. “We are taking urban education to a new dimension. These smart classrooms are not only connecting students with technology but also preparing them for the future,” said Mr. Amrit Abhijat (1995-batch IAS officer), Principal Secretary of the department.
These classrooms are equipped with interactive digital boards, high-speed internet, and multimedia content to foster an immersive, engaging, and modern educational experience. The broader objective is to upgrade the education infrastructure in government schools and increase access to quality education for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
A significant portion of the completed smart classrooms has been built under the Smart City Mission at a sanctioned cost of Rs. 160 crore. Other schemes have also contributed: 190 classrooms were established under the Kayakalp initiative with Rs. 58 crore, 913 under the Aspirational Cities Programme with Rs. 30 crore, while the CM Abhyudaya Composite School Scheme and the Vaishvik Nagaroday Yojana are supporting the development of 25 and 13 classrooms, respectively.
Launched in 2022, the smart classroom campaign has already made notable strides, with over 65% of the approved infrastructure in place. The initiative has reportedly led to a 15% boost in enrollment, pushing urban government school enrollment rates to nearly 60%, well above the national average.
Officials also note a marked improvement in student learning outcomes and a reduction in dropout rates, underscoring the effectiveness of integrating technology into classroom instruction.
