YUVAi (Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI) - National AI Skilling Program
by Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India
Certificates from MeitY & Intel India
8,500 participants
A national program by MeitY and Intel India, YUVAi equips students from classes 8 to 12 with essential AI skills, empowering them to develop innovative AI-enabled solutions for real-world societal challenges across various themes. This program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 1 to 2
Duration
Ongoing throughout the year, structured in three phases.
Eligibility
Open to all school students across India in classes 8 to 12 (typically ages 13-18). No prior AI knowledge or experience is required, only an inquisitive mind. Students can participate individually or in teams of two.
- Grade level
- Grade 8 to 12
- Age range
- 13 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Currently enrolled in an Indian school from grade 8 to 12.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Certificates from MeitY & Intel India
Participants receive an e-Certificate of Participation after attending orientation sessions and an e-Certificate of Appreciation upon successful idea submission. Students shortlisted for Phase 2 receive a Training Participation Certificate upon completion of the Deep Dive AI Training.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation demonstrates a strong interest and foundational knowledge in AI, which can be beneficial for admissions to engineering, computer science, and technology programs at leading universities in India and abroad.
Career pathways
This program provides a strong foundation in Artificial Intelligence, a rapidly growing field, preparing students for future careers in technology, data science, engineering, and innovation. It fosters an entrepreneurial mindset and equips them with skills highly valued in the digital economy.
Recognition
National Recognition & Exposure
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 15 Jan 2025
- Registration closed
- 31 Dec 2025
- Dates
- 16 Feb 2026 to 20 Feb 2026
- Results
- 20 Feb 2026
How to apply
- 1Students can self-register on the program portal or through their teachers.
- 2Online orientation session details will be provided via email upon registration.
- 3Idea submission involves creating a 120-second video explaining an AI-enabled solution for a chosen theme.
Rules and guidelines
- Participants must be school students from classes 8 to 12.
- Ideas can be submitted individually or in teams of two.
- Participants must adhere to the program's three-phase structure: online orientation, hands-on AI training, and felicitation.
- Students must develop AI-enabled innovations/projects based on one of the eight core themes.
Technology requirements
- Access to a computer or mobile device for online orientation sessions.
- Stable internet connection for online sessions and idea submission.
- Equipment for recording a 120-second video for idea submission.
About this opportunity
The YUVAi (Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI) program is a national initiative by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, in collaboration with Intel India. It aims to foster a deeper understanding of AI technology and social skills among school students.
The program provides an applied learning experience, enabling students to identify how AI can be used to tackle critical problems and contribute to the inclusive development of the nation.
This program is open to school students across India, specifically those studying in classes 8 to 12. There are no prerequisites for participation; an inquisitive mind is all that is needed to begin the AI journey. Students can participate individually or in teams of two.
Participants will demystify AI, learn AI tech and social skills, and develop indigenous AI solutions to real-world problems. They will gain practical experience through mentored AI projects and acquire critical thinking abilities. The program offers certificates of participation and appreciation, with opportunities for top performers to showcase their solutions at national platforms.
The program is structured in three phases: online orientation, hands-on AI training, and a felicitation ceremony.
It introduces students to various social themes like AI in agriculture, healthcare, education, environment, transportation, rural development, smart cities, and law & justice, encouraging them to develop innovative AI solutions.
What your child will do
- Online orientation sessions on core AI concepts
- Idea submission through 120-second video presentations
- Online deep-dive AI training for shortlisted students
- 3-day face-to-face boot camps for mentorship and guidance
- Development of AI-enabled innovations and projects
- National showcase and felicitation ceremony for top solutions
Mentors and faculty
Experienced AI coaches and industry experts from Intel India and other partners provide mentorship and guidance.
Languages
Academic details
Difficulty: Beginner
What's covered
The program curriculum covers fundamental AI concepts, ideation processes, and hands-on AI training. It encourages students to develop AI-enabled solutions for themes such as AI in Agriculture, Healthcare, Education, Environment & Clean Energy, Transportation, Rural Development, Smart Cities, and Law & Justice. The curriculum is designed to be accessible to students with no prior AI knowledge.
Frequently asked questions
How do students typically manage the time commitment required for this multi-phase program alongside their academic studies?
The YUVAi program is designed with flexibility, offering online modules and structured phases. Students are encouraged to plan their time effectively, utilizing the provided resources and mentorship to integrate program activities without compromising academic responsibilities. The phased approach allows for focused engagement at different stages.
What are the key indicators that a student is a good fit for the YUVAi program?
Ideal participants demonstrate curiosity about technology, a willingness to learn new concepts, and an interest in applying innovative solutions to real-world problems. No prior AI knowledge is required; an inquisitive mind and a desire to contribute to societal development are the primary indicators of a good fit.
How is student progress tracked throughout the different phases of the program?
Progress is monitored through participation in online sessions, submission of ideas, engagement in training modules, and the development of AI prototypes. Mentors provide guidance and feedback, ensuring students are on track to achieve learning outcomes and project milestones. Certificates are awarded at various completion points.
What are the long-term benefits for participants who successfully complete the YUVAi program?
Successful completion provides students with a strong foundation in AI, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It enhances their academic profiles, offers national recognition, and opens doors to future opportunities in STEM fields, higher education, and technology careers. The program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset.
Are there opportunities for students to continue their AI learning journey after completing the program?
The YUVAi program aims to ignite a passion for AI. While formal follow-up programs are not explicitly detailed, participants are encouraged to leverage their acquired skills and network to explore advanced AI courses, participate in further innovation challenges, and engage with the broader AI community. Resources for continued learning are often shared.
How does the program ensure that students from diverse backgrounds can effectively participate and benefit?
The program is nationwide, free of cost, and requires no prior AI knowledge, making it accessible to a broad spectrum of students. Online resources, mentorship, and a focus on real-world problems relevant to various communities help ensure inclusive participation and provide equitable learning opportunities for all.
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Organization
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India
View organizationCategories
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