Microsoft Copilot Transforms Delhi Classrooms: AI Becomes 'Thinking Partner' for Teachers
In a classroom at a CM Shri school in Delhi, traditional chalk and blackboard methods are being replaced by a dynamic digital learning environment. Students engage with colorful infographics projected on smart panels, receive real-time feedback alongside detailed explanations, and benefit from personalized prompts tailored to their individual learning needs.
The AI-Powered Education Revolution
At the heart of this educational transformation is Microsoft Copilot, an artificial intelligence tool that educators now refer to as a "thinking partner." On Friday, teachers at the CM Shri School on Pandara Road demonstrated how AI is fundamentally reshaping everyday classroom practices across Delhi's government schools.
This initiative forms part of Microsoft's newly launched 'Elevate for Educators' programme in India, an ambitious project aiming to train 2 million teachers and reach 200,000 schools across the country by 2030. The AI-powered system is scheduled for implementation across all 75 CM Shri schools in the national capital, with India becoming the first Asian country to roll out this comprehensive programme.
Aligning with National Education Policy
The scale of this opportunity is particularly significant in what is often described as the world's largest classroom, home to over 200 million students and nearly 10 million educators. So far, 356 teachers across CM Shri Schools have received specialized training in the new system.
The programme emphasizes enquiry-based learning, personalized instruction, and responsible AI use, directly aligning with the National Education Policy 2020, which introduces artificial intelligence and computational thinking concepts beginning at grade 3.
Government Vision for Smart Classrooms
Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood articulated the government's vision, stating that the primary goal is to ensure that government school classrooms become "smart" learning environments. "Earlier, students in government schools were often called underprivileged. We want to fundamentally change that reality," he explained, adding that Delhi aims to become a hub for technology-enabled education that can be replicated across India.
Microsoft Leadership Perspectives
Brad Smith, Vice-Chair and President at Microsoft, commented on the initiative's significance: "As artificial intelligence becomes integrated into everyday learning experiences, we want to ensure it strengthens educational outcomes, preserves essential human judgement, and earns the trust of both educators and learners. By implementing AI at this unprecedented scale across India, we aim to open new opportunities and deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for teachers and students alike."
Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, added: "As intelligence becomes widely available through technological advancements, the real differentiator will be how confidently and responsibly people can utilize these tools to enhance learning and development."
Transforming Teacher Preparation and Classroom Practices
For many educators, the most significant change lies in lesson preparation and instructional clarity. Sadaf Fatima, a teacher at the CM Shri School in Rohini's Sector 11, described how her lesson planning process has evolved dramatically. While preparing a Class XI biology lesson, she utilized Microsoft Copilot to create engaging posters, informative infographics, and structured presentations that clearly defined learning objectives.
Complex biological topics that once required lengthy, complicated explanations are now broken down into smaller, more understandable tasks through AI assistance. The technology is also opening important doors to educational inclusion and accessibility.
Supporting Diverse Learning Needs
Madhubala, a teacher from CM Shri School in Dwarka's Sector 22, shared how artificial intelligence helped her support an autistic student more effectively. Using Copilot's capabilities, she created customized motivational stickers and specialized feedback tools specifically designed to make the child feel more comfortable and engaged in the learning process.
Language learning is experiencing similar transformative shifts. Preeti Sharma, another educator from Rohini, explained how the AI tool helps simplify abstract concepts in English lessons while simultaneously encouraging higher-order thinking skills such as inference, prediction, and critical analysis.
Students Becoming Creators with AI
Students are not merely consuming technology passively; they are actively creating with it. Shubhi Yadav, a student participant, described building an innovative project called "Parakh AI." "By placing a fruit like an orange or mango in front of a camera, the system automatically identifies it and provides detailed nutritional and botanical information," she explained enthusiastically.
For another group of students, including Suhana and Aditi, artificial intelligence became their backstage mentor for theatrical production. With no prior experience in theatre, they utilized Copilot to script an entire play, learning about costume design, lighting techniques, mood creation, and tonal variation along their creative journey.
The Future of AI in Indian Education
This comprehensive integration of artificial intelligence into Delhi's government school system represents a significant milestone in India's educational evolution. As more teachers receive training and additional schools implement the technology, the potential for personalized, engaging, and inclusive education continues to expand across the nation's vast educational landscape.
