Karnatak University Overhauls Curriculum, Mandates AI for All Students
Karnatak University in Dharwad has taken a decisive step to address long-standing concerns about outdated academic syllabi. The university announced a comprehensive revamp of its undergraduate and postgraduate curricula. This move directly responds to feedback from academicians and industry leaders who have highlighted the growing gap between university education and current industry needs.
Addressing the Skills Gap
Education experts and industrialists have consistently pointed out that obsolete university syllabi contribute significantly to the shortage of skilled professionals in the job market. Many graduates lack the competencies employers seek, leading to rising unemployment among degree holders. Karnatak University, as the state's second-oldest university, is now tackling this issue head-on.
The university will introduce artificial intelligence as a compulsory subject across all undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting from the 2026-27 academic year. This decision places KU alongside premier national institutions like IITs, IIMs, and IISc that have already embraced specialized AI, machine learning, and data science programs.
Practical Focus and Implementation
KU Vice-Chancellor Prof AM Khan emphasized that the revised curriculum will balance theoretical learning with practical training. "We want to ensure our students acquire industry-relevant skills that make them job-ready," Prof Khan told TOI. The mandatory AI course will cover all academic streams including arts, science, and commerce.
Students pursuing BA, BCom, BSc, BCA, BBA, MA, MCom, and MSc degrees will all study artificial intelligence as part of their core curriculum. The university aims to provide both undergraduate and postgraduate students with a strong foundational understanding of AI before they enter the professional world.
All colleges affiliated with Karnatak University across Dharwad, Gadag, and Uttara Kannada districts will adopt the new AI syllabus from the next academic year.
Structural Changes and New Programs
To facilitate this major curriculum change, the university has established a Board of Studies specifically tasked with designing the AI syllabus. This board has received clear directives to complete the syllabus design by June, secure approval from the Academic Council, and ensure smooth implementation from the start of the next academic session.
Beyond the mandatory AI course, Karnatak University is expanding its postgraduate offerings. The university will introduce new MSc programs in cyber security and artificial intelligence and machine learning. These advanced programs will emphasize hands-on learning through field visits and mandatory project work.
Aligning with National Initiatives
KU's curriculum overhaul aligns with broader national efforts to promote AI literacy. Government initiatives like 'YUVA AI for ALL' have already begun creating awareness about artificial intelligence across educational institutions. By making AI compulsory for all students, Karnatak University ensures its graduates remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven job market.
Through these comprehensive changes, Karnatak University aims to produce graduates who are professionally competent, industry-ready, and confident in facing emerging technological challenges. The university leadership believes this curriculum transformation will significantly improve student employability and bridge the persistent gap between academia and industry expectations.
