CBSE Promotes 19 Free Online Courses for Classes 8–12
- Layana Mary
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Students studying in Classes 8 to 12 can explore 19 free online technology courses available through the NIELIT Digital University platform. The programmes cover subjects such as artificial intelligence, Python, the Internet of Things, web designing, DevSecOps and semiconductor design.
In a notification dated June 30, 2026, the Central Board of Secondary Education asked its affiliated schools to inform students and parents about these learning opportunities. Schools were also encouraged to help interested students explore and enrol in suitable courses.
The initiative gives school students an opportunity to learn practical digital skills alongside their regular studies.
Who Provides These Free Courses?
The courses are provided by the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology, commonly known as NIELIT.
NIELIT is an autonomous scientific society operating under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. It has developed the NIELIT Digital University platform to provide online learning opportunities in emerging technologies.
CBSE is promoting these courses among students in its affiliated schools. Therefore, the programmes are offered by NIELIT rather than being part of the regular CBSE curriculum.
Complete List of 19 NIELIT Online Courses
The official CBSE notification lists the following courses:
1. AWS DevSecOps Basic – 120 hours
2. Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing – 2 hours 58 minutes
3. AWS DevSecOps Advanced – 120 hours
4. AWS DevSecOps Intermediate – 120 hours
5. Bootcamp: RTL, IP Integration and SoC Sign-off – 1.5 hours
6. Course on Computer Concepts in English – 5 hours 31 minutes
7. Course on Computer Concepts in Hindi – 5 hours 31 minutes
8. ChipCraft: RTL, IP Integration and SoC Sign-off – 1.5 hours
9. DEEPCRAFT Studio – Infineon Tech Champion Program – 1 hour 16 minutes
10. Introduction to Generative AI – 1.5 hours
11. Introduction to Python – 1.5 hours
12. O Level: Internet of Things and Its Applications in English – 15 hours 27 minutes
13. O Level: Internet of Things and Its Applications in Hindi – 9 hours 39 minutes
14. O Level: Python Language in English – 13 hours 48 minutes
15. O Level: Python Language in Hindi – 13 hours 48 minutes
16. O Level: Web Designing and Publishing in English – 19 hours 53 minutes
17. O Level: Web Designing and Publishing in Hindi – 19 hours 53 minutes
18. VLSI Design Flow from RTL to GDS-II – 1.5 hours
19. Yuva AI for All – 4.5 hours
Some subjects are available separately in English and Hindi. These language versions are counted individually in the official list of 19 courses.
Technology Areas Covered by the Courses
Artificial Intelligence
Students interested in AI can begin with Introduction to Generative AI or Yuva AI for All. These introductory courses can help learners understand how AI-based technologies are developing and being used.
Python Programming
The platform provides a short introductory Python course as well as longer O Level Python programmes in English and Hindi. Beginners may start with the introductory course before attempting the more detailed modules.
Internet of Things
The IoT courses introduce students to connected devices and their applications. Separate versions are available in English and Hindi.
Web Designing
Students interested in website creation can study web designing and publishing. This course may help them understand the basic technologies and processes used to develop web pages.
DevSecOps and Cloud-Related Skills
The catalogue includes basic, intermediate and advanced AWS DevSecOps programmes. Each is listed as a 120-hour course, making these the longest options in the group.
DevSecOps generally brings software development, security practices and IT operations together. Because these courses are longer and more specialised, students should read the course information before enrolling.
Semiconductor and Chip Design
The list also contains courses covering VLSI design, RTL, IP integration and system-on-chip sign-off. These subjects may be useful for students interested in electronics, chip development or semiconductor technology.
Flexible Course Durations
The course durations range from approximately 76 minutes to 120 hours. Students can therefore choose a programme according to their interests, current knowledge and available study time.
Short introductory courses may be easier to complete during weekends or holidays. Longer programmes require regular study and planning.
Students do not have to enrol in every available course. Selecting one relevant course and completing it carefully may provide greater value than beginning several courses at once.
How to Enrol in the Free Courses
Students can follow these steps:
Open the official NIELIT Digital University portal.
Review the available courses and their descriptions.
Choose a course that matches your interests and skill level.
Create an account or sign in to the platform.
Enter the required registration information carefully.
Enrol in the selected course.
Follow the lessons according to the course schedule.
Students should confirm the current course availability, technical requirements and completion conditions on the official portal before registering.
Why Has CBSE Shared This Initiative?
According to the official notification, the programme is intended to promote:
Digital literacy among school students
Awareness of emerging technologies
Technology-based learning
Practical and future-ready skills
Early exposure to specialised digital fields
The courses can supplement school education, but they do not replace regular classroom subjects. Students should select programmes that can be managed without affecting their academic responsibilities.
What Students Should Consider Before Choosing
Before enrolling, students should check:
Whether the course is suitable for beginners
The language in which it is offered
Its total duration
Whether a computer or particular software is required
Whether they can follow a regular learning schedule
The latest completion and assessment requirements
Younger students may also discuss their choice with a parent, teacher or school counsellor.
Key Takeaways
NIELIT has made 19 online technology courses available free of cost.
CBSE has asked its affiliated schools to inform students in Classes 8 to 12.
The subjects include AI, Python, IoT, web designing, DevSecOps, 3D printing and semiconductor design.
Course durations range from around 1 hour 16 minutes to 120 hours.
Students can explore and enrol through the NIELIT Digital University portal.
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