VR headsets and AI boards: Tech turns anganwadi into a virtual wonderland

PATHANAMTHITTA: At four years old, Achu can instantly identify a crocodile in a virtual jungle, while Aami, 3, who was once reluctant to be in class, now delights in watching a 3D apple appear before her eyes. A quiet learning revolution has been unfolding at the states first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered anganwadi in Mullanvathukkal, in Pathanamthitta districts Mezhuveli grama panchayat. The initiative has not only transformed the way students learn but also boosted regular attendance among children aged two to six. Since early this month, the tiny tots here have moved beyond chalks and slates to explore poems, songs, and foundational concepts through virtual reality (VR) headsets, AI-enabled smart boards, and other interactive digital tools. The Mezhuveli Mullanvathukkal anganwadi now proudly houses the states first virtual reality lab for pre-schoolers. Children understand better through visuals... it helps them grasp topics faster. They love it so much that they dont even want to go home after class, said Shanthi, the teacher, with a smile, as her students giggle in the background. The project forms part of the Pandalam block panchayats annual development initiative, with Mezhuveli chosen as the pilot centre. Learning and knowledge are constantly evolving. With modern tools like AI and virtual reality, education is entering a new era. To keep pace with these changes, children must experience new ways of learning, said block panchayat president B S Anish Mon, who inaugurated the project on November 6. The idea took shape after discussions during the state-level pravesanolsavam (school-reopening festival) held in Mezhuveli, which was inaugurated by Health Minister Veena George in June. We realised that while smart classrooms were being introduced in schools, anganwadis were still missing out. There was no model to follow, but we decided to take the leap, Anish Mon added. Funded under the Kilikkood project, the initiative quickly won over parents. Children are more curious, creative, and expressive now, Shanthi noted. They talk about colours, animals, and numbers with new excitement. Good ideas, good tools, and good teaching -- together, they are shaping brighter beginnings for Mezhuvelis youngest learners.