China is making a significant move to include artificial intelligence (AI) education in its primary and secondary schools. Starting from the fall semester on September 1, 2025, students will have a minimum of eight hours of AI lessons each year.
Schools can choose to incorporate AI into their existing subjects or offer it as a separate course. Younger students in elementary school will focus on hands-on activities to learn basic AI concepts.
In middle school, students will study how AI is used in everyday life, while high school students will dive into more advanced AI topics and innovation.
This change is part of China’s strategy to lead the world in AI technology. By introducing AI education early, the country aims to equip the next generation with the skills needed to drive future innovations.
China’s Minister of Education, Huai Jinpeng, stated that AI is revolutionizing technology and creating valuable educational opportunities.
He also revealed that China will release a white paper on AI education in 2025, outlining the country’s plans and goals for incorporating AI into its education system.
Other countries are also focusing on AI education. For example, California has passed laws to include AI in school curriculums, and Italy is testing AI tools to improve digital skills in classrooms.
Many nations are recognizing the importance of teaching AI and are working to include it in their educational systems.
China’s decision to start AI education at an early stage reflects its desire to prepare young people for a future where AI is a key part of many industries. This initiative highlights the growing importance of technological knowledge and positions China as a leader in the global AI field. The upcoming white paper will provide more details on how China plans to shape the future of AI education.