IIT Guwahati Developing VR Metaverse for PM SHRI Schools—But is the Metaverse Still the Future?
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati is set to develop India’s first VR-enabled metaverse platform for PM SHRI schools, transforming how students engage with complex subjects like mathematics, science, and social studies. The initiative, named “Gyandhara,” is being developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Department of Education, Assam Government and will be piloted in 56 PM SHRI Adarsh Vidyalayas across Assam later this year.
However, as India moves towards metaverse-driven education, a pressing question remains—is the metaverse still the future? Once touted as the next big thing in digital transformation, the metaverse has seen declining interest in several sectors globally. While education may provide a new space for its application, questions remain about its long-term sustainability.
The Gyandhara Metaverse is designed to bridge gaps in conceptual learning by creating interactive, immersive 3D environments where students can visualise complex topics in their local languages. The metaverse will use virtual reality (VR) technology to create a dynamic learning experience that goes beyond traditional methods like blackboards and textbooks.
Dr Keyur Sorathia, Associate Professor at IIT Guwahati and the project’s lead, explained that the initiative will help students develop creativity, critical thinking skills, and global collaboration opportunities.