CBSE 3030 Eklavya Online Series: AI and Computational Thinking Get a Hands-On Makeover
The concept of AI does not have to be studied exclusively in the presence of a computer. CBSE is giving this theory a chance with its new ‘3030 Eklavya – Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ online series. CT, AI, and even STEM concepts are more approachable with the use of activities, puzzles, and everyday objects.
With the launch of an 8-episode programme, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is making resources for students and teachers from class 6 and above, available on a voluntary basis, from August 15, 2026. The collaboration with the Centre for Creative Learning (CCL) at IIT Gandhinagar offers participants the opportunity to sharpen their skills in CT and AI. With the launch of the 3030 Eklavya series on the official CBSE website, participants can now register.
What is the 3030 Eklavya Online Series?
The online series is another step toward incorporating Computational Thinking and Artificial Intelligence into the entire school system, and not just the technical field. The series emphasises CT creation by designing various activities and solving of problems through observation and the identification of said problems through experimentation and recognition of patterns.
The first episode, "CT and AI using Matchboxes," will premiere on August 15 at 4 pm. The other episodes have been scheduled to premiere every Sunday at 4 pm. Since the matchbox may seem quite removed from the idea of AI, using familiar and everyday materials may make it easier for students to grasp abstract computational thinking without the need for fancy materials. Each episode is conducted in Hindi with English subtitles made available when the episodes are aired.
Why CBSE Is Bringing CT and AI Into Schools
The Curriculum Framework for Computational Thinking and Artificial Intelligence for Classes III to VIII for session 2026-27, focuses on logical reasoning, systematic problem-solving, pattern recognition, data organisation, and the responsible use of AI. Students will learn to differentiate between tasks that can be performed using automation and tasks that can be performed using AI. Students will also learn about supervised and unsupervised learning and reinforcement learning.
For session 2026-27, CBSE also designed “Computational Thinking (CT) and Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)” as the focus area for teacher training. This framework incorporates AI readiness, progressive CT pedagogy, mathematics, interdisciplinary learning, real-world AI applications, assessment and responsible AI use.
This means that 3030 Eklavya is not just a standalone online programme, but part of a significant shift in how CBSE wants schools to implement technology-integrated learning.
Who can participate?
Participation is open to:
- Students in classes 6 and above
- All teachers, including teachers of CBSE-affiliated schools
- Volunteers
All participants must register for this free program, which consists of eight sessions. Participants are expected to complete homework and/or assignments to receive a participation certificate for INR 200 + taxes. Teachers who complete all eight sessions and the requirements will receive a certificate of competency for the same. The participation of teachers of CBSE-affiliated schools will be counted as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for three hours per episode as per CBSE’s requirement.
What Students and Teachers Can Expect
The 3030 Eklavya program has learners use their creativity to design solutions using readily available resources to answer queries related to computing, logic, science, and technology concepts. This program can be helpful for learners who process information better through doing than through memorising.
For teachers, the sessions may provide practical examples for structuring lessons and classroom activities focused on the principles of computing and artificial intelligence without making the classroom a coding class.
A Bigger Shift Than an AI Course
The series is not the most important component of this effort. The most important element is the significant change in direction by CBSE. Now, with CT and AI included in the curriculum for Classes III to VIII—along with the 3030 Eklavya program and other teacher training and enhancement programs—AI-based concepts are moving to an even earlier position within the school system.
The interesting part of this program will be how it will be implemented. It is relatively easy to allow students to interact with AI technologies, as compared to teaching learners to criticize the outputs, respond to patterns, and think through and address problems on their own, as well as to use technology ethically. For learners, the first lesson might be with matchboxes, using available resources, to promote the goal of using a creative and problem-solving approach before having a programming approach.
Final Thoughts
The significance of CBSE’s 3030 Eklavya series is how it prompts learners to understand, interrogate and manipulate AI as a part of their learning. To help learners understand and connect the concepts of algorithm, pattern recognition, machine learning and the like to the activities they can engage in, the framework uses matchboxes, cards and even puzzles.
Furthermore, this framework also means that to some extent, CBSE is working to incorporate the principles of Computational Thinking and AI in the school system. If and when the online lessons provided are able to be transferred into practical classroom lessons, students will be able to acquire skills beyond programming, like the ability to think critically and logically and solve problems creatively, as well as develop a better, informed understanding of the intricacies of AI.
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