UP’s government schools are adopting smart classrooms to enhance learning with digital tools like interactive whiteboards and multimedia content. With initiatives like the NIPUN Bharat Digital Initiative, 48 urban schools in Prayagraj are set to benefit, though only 17.55% of UP’s government schools currently have smart classrooms, lagging behind states like Punjab.
UP’s Push for Digital Learning in Government Schools
Uttar Pradesh is making strides to modernize education through the integration of smart classrooms in government schools, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional teaching and technology-driven learning. Under the Smart Cities Mission and initiatives like the NIPUN Bharat Digital Initiative Unified Portal (NBDIUP), the state is equipping schools with advanced tools such as interactive whiteboards, projectors, and digital content to create engaging and interactive learning environments. In Prayagraj, 48 schools under the UP Basic Education Council are slated to receive smart classroom setups, with the project managed by Prayagraj Smart City Limited. The initiative includes installation of projectors, speakers, power backups, and network infrastructure, with a five-year maintenance plan and teacher training to ensure effective use.
However, data presented in the Rajya Sabha on July 23, 2025, reveals that only 8,642 of UP’s 49,325 government schools (17.55%) from Class 6 and above currently have smart classrooms, significantly lower than states like Punjab, where 95.9% of schools are equipped. Additionally, just 2.1% of UP’s schools have Information and Communication Technology (ICT) labs, and 26.6% have internet connectivity, highlighting a digital divide within the state. The government’s push aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes digital education to prepare students for a tech-driven future.
Smart classrooms in UP are designed to enhance student engagement through multimedia resources like videos, animations, and virtual simulations, making complex concepts more accessible. For instance, schools like Primary School Rajapur-1 and Kareli-I in Prayagraj are part of this transformation, aiming to improve academic outcomes and digital literacy. The integration of Learning Management Systems (LMS) allows teachers to track student progress in real-time, enabling personalized learning and better classroom management, particularly in large classes common in government schools.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Limited funding, inadequate infrastructure in rural areas, and the need for extensive teacher training pose hurdles. The NBDIUP platform addresses some of these by streamlining equipment procurement, scheduling training, and managing grievances, ensuring efficient implementation. The initiative also promotes data security to protect student information, a critical concern in digital learning environments. As UP continues to expand its smart classroom network, the focus is on creating equitable access to quality education, aligning with national goals to foster a future-ready generation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent reports and data from sources like The Times of India, The Print, and government initiatives like the NIPUN Bharat Digital Initiative Unified Portal. Information is accurate as of August 4, 2025, and reflects the latest available updates on smart classroom implementation in Uttar Pradesh.