Is IIT Kharagpur Offering BS Courses in AI and Data Science in Bengali?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IIT Kharagpur launches BS degree in Bengali.
- Focus on AI and Data Science courses.
- Aligns with National Education Policy 2020.
- Open to students from marginalized backgrounds.
- Technical content will be in English.
Kolkata, Sep 15 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking move, IIT Kharagpur is set to deliver its four-year BS (Bachelor of Science) degree program in Bengali, catering to students who speak the language from India, Bangladesh, and around the globe. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020.
"The demand for modern disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, and Electronic Systems is soaring. These courses can be accessed online or via NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning). This time, we have decided to offer these courses in the Bengali language," stated IIT Kharagpur Director Suman Chakraborty.
As per the director, students who complete the four-year curriculum will earn a BS degree, which is equivalent to BTech and BSc. Additionally, opportunities to obtain a diploma or certificate will also be available through short courses taught in Bengali.
Recently, discussions took place between IIT Kharagpur's Director Chakraborty and IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti regarding the collaborative management of these BS degrees and NPTEL courses. Following their discussion, a senior team from IIT Madras' NPTEL and BS programs visited IIT Kharagpur last Friday for further meetings.
Sources indicate that the topic of delivering the BS (Bachelor of Science) course in local languages through NPTEL was addressed, focusing on the interests of students from marginalized communities and those with limited proficiency in English. Professor Chakraborty expressed IIT Kharagpur's eagerness to provide BS, diploma, and certificate courses in AI and Data Science in Bengali, along with plans to translate existing courses into the language.
However, the technical components will still be instructed in English. According to the IIT Kharagpur director, the institute boasts qualified professors adept at translating and teaching these subjects in Bengali, proficient in both Bengali and English.