AI driven recommender systems for enhancing learning outcomes and equitable access to education under the National Education Policy 2020

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has significantly influenced educational systems worldwide, creating new opportunities for improving teaching, learning, and educational administration. In India, the National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes the integration of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to transform the education sector and promote a learner-centric approach. This study examines the role of AI in education within the framework of NEP 2020, focusing on its potential applications, benefits, challenges, and strategies for effective implementation. The research explores how AI technologies can support personalized learning, adaptive instruction, intelligent assessment, and data-driven decision-making in educational institutions. AI-based systems can enhance student engagement, provide individualized learning pathways, and assist educators in identifying learning gaps through advanced analytics. Additionally, AI can streamline administrative processes and support innovative teaching practices. Despite these advantages, the implementation of AI in India’s education system faces several challenges, including limited technological infrastructure, unequal access to digital resources, insufficient teacher training in information and communication technologies (ICT), and concerns related to data privacy and ethical use of AI systems. The study also highlights the persistent digital divide between rural and urban schools, as well as between private and government institutions, which may hinder the equitable adoption of AI-enabled educational technologies. To address these challenges, the study proposes strategies such as strengthening digital infrastructure, improving teacher training and professional development, establishing ethical data governance frameworks, promoting equitable access to digital resources, and encouraging research and innovation in educational technologies. The study concludes that while AI has significant potential to transform education in India, its successful integration requires coordinated efforts among policymakers, educators, researchers, and technology developers to achieve the goals of NEP 2020 and build a more inclusive and future-ready education system.