THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said practical training will be given to 12 lakh students in advanced technologies, including robotics. Training will be provided to students in classes 8 to 12. He was inaugurating 9,000 robotic kits to be deployed in 2,000 high schools through Little KITES units at the Jimmy George Stadium.

"The government approaches technology with an open mind. The world is going through the fourth industrial revolution. Among these, artificial intelligence and robotics are the most important areas. Students of Kerala should not be left behind in getting to know the technological advancements," CM said.

"Research is underway to replace workers in dangerous jobs with robotics technology. Four years ago, a group of students in Kerala developed a new system for cleaning manholes. Various countries have adopted that technology," he said.

The Chief Minister also said that the government will develop a project to make Thiruvananthapuram the artificial intelligence hub of Kerala. After the inauguration, the Chief Minister visited the miniature lab of robotics.

Presiding over the function, Minister V Sivankutty said that each student's aptitude would be determined and training would be given appropriately. Finance Minister KN Balagopal said that the project is initiating practical training in technological changes.