Madurai: Principals of several government schools in Madurai district have expressed concern over the state's directive to conduct Artificial Intelligence (AI) classes twice a week, citing the lack of internet facilities in rural areas.

Under the Tamil Nadu SPARK (Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Internet Tools Knowledge Scheme), AI, coding and internet tools have been introduced this academic year for students from Classes 6 to 9 in thousands of government-aided schools. To facilitate this, two teachers from each school are to undergo special training and subsequently train their colleagues.

However, during an online meeting organised by the District Teacher Training Institute, principals pointed out that hi-tech labs in many rural schools had remained non-functional for months due to the absence of internet connectivity.

At least 72 government schools in Alanganallur, Vadipatti, Thiruparankundram, Usilampatti, Kallikudi and surrounding blocks reportedly lack internet access. Principals said though private internet services were earlier used, a February order mandated BSNL connections alone. With BSNL unavailable in many villages and new connections costing over Rs 1 lakh, more than 100 schools remain disconnected.

“How can we conduct AI classes when hi-tech labs are not functioning? Authorities are issuing directions without addressing ground realities,” a principal remarked.

Teachers also raised concerns that the online meeting, held between 11 am and 12.30 pm on Tuesday, disrupted classroom teaching for one-and-a-half hours. They urged education officials to schedule such sessions in a manner that does not affect students' regular lessons.