Kerala’s public education system has achieved a new feat with the release of a Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)-based operating system (OS) suite, KITE GNU Linux 22. 04. This OS suite has been developed by Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) and is expected to revolutionize the education sector in the state by introducing modern technology to over three lakh computers in public schools.
A Versatile Operating System for All
The KITE GNU Linux 22.04 is not only limited to schools but is a complete computing platform that anyone can use. This OS is ideal for students, teachers, professionals, and even home users since it has features to suit all these categories. It can be used in government offices and DTP centers, software development companies, and even engineering colleges.
This new OS version is built on the Wayland system, replacing the xorg window mechanism currently in use, offering a more modern and efficient computing experience. The OS is a customized version of the popular FOSS operating system Ubuntu, and it is bundled with a range of applications that are suitable for various purposes.
Key Features and Applications
The KITE GNU Linux 22.04 is loaded with various applications that make it an ideal choice for educational purposes and beyond. Some of the notable applications include:
- GCompris and Tux Paint: Ideal for younger students, offering educational games and creative tools.
- PictoBlox: A visual programming environment that introduces students to coding.
- Traffic Game and Waste Challenge: Fun and engaging ways to learn about road safety and environmental conservation.
- Omnitux, EDU Activate, PhET, and GeoGebra: Tools for interactive learning in subjects like math, science, and geography.
- LibreOffice Package: A comprehensive office suite that includes word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
- Colour Paint, Scratch, and Krita: Tools for graphic design and creative projects.
Because AI is becoming more and more integrated into the contemporary world, KITE GNU Linux 22.04 also consists of resources that enable users to grasp the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, computer vision, and other topics. This is particularly relevant as AI has been incorporated into the ICT textbook for Class VII in Kerala this year.
Comprehensive Support for Malayalam Computing
Among the highlights of KITE GNU Linux 22. 04 is its complex method of computing Malayalam. This makes the OS available to those who prefer the Malayalam language and the state’s efforts towards linguistic diversity. Besides this, the OS suite has an ebook reader, desktop publishing, sound recording and video editing tools, 3D animation packages, and screen recording and broadcast tools.
A Move Towards Cost-Effective Education
By transitioning to a completely free software ecosystem, KITE has achieved substantial cost savings for the state. The decision to switch from previously licensed software to FOSS for higher secondary courses and NSQF job roles in vocational higher secondary education has cost Kerala ₹3,000 crore across two lakh computers. This is a great financial saving and a clear indication of the progressive nature of the state.
Training and Implementation
To avoid any hitches in the transition to the new OS, KITE is planning to conduct training sessions for all the school IT coordinators on how to install KITE GNU Linux 22. 04 across all school computers. This practical training will enable the coordinators to understand and be in a position to apply the OS to make the benefits felt by all students and teachers.
For more information and to download the OS, visit the KITE Official Website.
Kerala is leading the way in education and technology, making sure that every child is equipped with what they need to thrive in the digital age. With KITE GNU Linux 22. 04, Kerala is not only training students for the future, but it is creating that future in the present.