NEW DELHI: In a bold step to enhance its global position in artificial intelligence (AI), China has announced the mandatory integration of AI education in primary and secondary schools.
Beginning in the fall semester of 2025, all students will be required to complete a minimum of eight hours of AI instruction per academic year.
The implementation strategy allows schools to incorporate AI lessons into existing curriculums or offer them as standalone subjects.
At the elementary level, students will engage in hands-on activities to introduce basic AI concepts.
Middle school students will study the practical uses of AI in everyday life, while high school students will focus on advanced AI applications and innovation.
This educational reform is part of Chinaโs broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in AI technology.
By embedding AI education early, the initiative aims to foster a generation of students proficient in AI, helping to boost the countryโs technological capabilities.
Chinaโs Minister of Education, Huai Jinpeng, highlighted that AI is ushering in a technological revolution, providing immense educational opportunities.
During a national legislature session, Huai revealed that a white paper on AI education would be released in 2025, detailing the strategic policies, goals, and methods for integrating AI into the educational system.
This move aligns with global trends, such as Californiaโs efforts to introduce AI literacy in schools and Italyโs experiments with AI tools to improve digital skills.
Countries worldwide are recognizing the importance of AI education, and Chinaโs proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to ensuring its youth are equipped for a future dominated by AI technology.
With this initiative, China is not only addressing the need for technological literacy but also strategically positioning itself at the forefront of the AI revolution.
The upcoming white paper will provide further insights into how China plans to lead in AI education.
