The Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) has introduced a new, free operating system called KITE GNU Linux 22.04, specially designed for public schools in Kerala. This initiative aims to improve digital education in about 300,000 computers across the state’s schools.
About the Operating System
KITE GNU Linux 22.04 is a version of Ubuntu that has been customized to meet the needs of educational environments. It uses the Wayland system, which offers better performance compared to the older xorg window system that most school computers currently use.
Applications Included
The operating system comes with various educational applications for both students and teachers, including:
- GCompris: A collection of educational games for younger children.
- Tux Paint: A fun drawing program designed for kids.
- Scratch: A simple tool that helps students learn the basics of coding.
- LibreOffice: A full office suite that allows students and teachers to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- GeoGebra: Software that helps students learn math and science concepts.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence
As part of the new curriculum for Class VII, which now includes lessons on artificial intelligence (AI), KITE GNU Linux 22.04 provides tools to help students learn about AI, machine learning, and computer vision. These tools allow students to engage with and understand modern technology.
Additional Features
The operating system also includes:
- Tools for using the Malayalam language, which is important for local students
- Ebook readers for digital reading
- Software for editing graphics and images
- Applications for sound recording and video editing
- 3D animation software for creative projects
- Programming environments that allow students to practice coding
Cost Savings and Implementation
By adopting KITE GNU Linux, Kerala’s schools are moving away from expensive licensed software and switching to free software. This change will save the state around ₹3,000 crore across 200,000 computers, which is a huge financial benefit for the public education system. To ensure a smooth transition, KITE will train school IT coordinators on how to install and use the new operating system. The operating system is available for free download from KITE’s official website.
KITE GNU Linux 22.04 will be officially launched by the Minister for General Education, V. Sivankutty, during the Little KITEs State camp at KITE’s regional resource center in Ernakulam. The launch event is scheduled for August 23.
