The Karnataka government has introduced several education reforms in the 2026–27 state budget, focusing on digital learning, infrastructure expansion and student welfare. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced measures such as a social media ban for children under 16, AI-powered tutors for students and large-scale school upgrades.
Social Media Ban Proposed for Children Below 16 Years
One of the most discussed proposals in the budget is a plan to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16. The government stated that the move aims to reduce the negative impact of excessive smartphone and online platform usage among students. Officials highlighted that increased screen time and social media addiction have raised concerns regarding students’ mental health and academic focus. The proposed restriction is intended to encourage healthier habits and better learning environments for school-age children
AI Tutors for Over 12 Lakh Students
The budget also emphasises technology-driven learning by introducing AI-powered personal tutors for more than 12 lakh students in government institutions. These AI tools are expected to support personalised learning by helping students revise lessons, solve problems and improve academic performance. The initiative reflects the state’s broader push to integrate artificial intelligence and digital technologies into the education system.
800 Schools to Be Upgraded Under KPS Model
Another major initiative announced in the budget is the expansion of the Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) model. The government plans to upgrade 800 institutions into KPS schools over the next three years, with an investment of around INR 3,900 crore. The KPS model aims to provide education from early grades to pre-university level within a single campus, improving continuity and access to quality education in government institutions. To strengthen school infrastructure, the budget also allocates funding for new classrooms, maintenance and basic facilities. These measures are intended to improve learning conditions in public schools across the state
15,000 Teacher Vacancies to Be Filled
Addressing faculty shortages, the government announced that 15,000 teacher vacancies in schools and colleges will be filled during the upcoming academic cycle. The recruitment drive aims to strengthen teaching capacity and improve student-teacher ratios in government institutions. Filling vacant positions is expected to enhance classroom learning and support the expansion of the state’s education programmes.
Higher Education and Technology Initiatives
The Karnataka budget also includes initiatives to modernise higher education and align courses with emerging industry demands. Key plans include:
- Development of 40 government colleges and 11 polytechnics as model institutions
- Introduction of new courses in AI, machine learning, cloud computing and automation engineering
- Establishment of centres of excellence for research and innovation
These reforms aim to strengthen Karnataka’s higher education ecosystem and prepare students for technology-driven careers in the future.
