Education is all set to go digital in Goa with Chief Minister Digambar Kamat saying that smart classes would be introduced in all the colleges across the state on a priority basis.

"The concept of smart classes is a digital initiative, new age technology driven movement that is fast becoming imperative for schools and colleges," Kamat said in his budget speech before the state Legislative Assembly yesterday.

The Chief Minister said that the initiative would be introduced in 100 schools, 25 higher secondary schools and all the colleges in Goa on a pilot basis.

The state government has made a provision of Rs two crore in the 2011-12 budget for this initiative.

"Smart class is transforming the way teachers teach and student learn in schools. All the students are provided with laptops and a classmate PC (personal computer)," he said adding that even teachers are provided with laptops.

Kamat said that the state government would procure the necessary hardware and software to select schools and all the colleges.

"The educational system around the world has undergone tremendous change in its teaching methodologies and has adopted the use of modern computer and information technology for teaching the students," Kamat said.

In his budget speech, Kamat also announced the establishment of Goa Institute of Open Schooling (GIOS) wherein all the students who drop out at high school level would be provided quality facilities in the state to complete their education under the State Open Board.

The Chief Minister has announced seed capital of Rs one crore for establishment of this board.