In an effort to cement its position in the international artificial intelligence (AI) space, China has pledged to make AI classes mandatory in primary and secondary schools from September 1, 2025. Students will be required to take at least eight hours of AI class per year under the new mandate aimed at cultivating a technologically inclined generation for the future.
Schools will have the option to integrate AI subjects within current courses or incorporate special AI courses. Elementary school students will learn through interactive sessions to introduce them to fundamental AI ideas. Middle school students will explore real-world applications, while high school students will learn more sophisticated areas, with a focus on AI innovation and emerging technologies.
The reform also supports China's dream of being an AI superpower globally. Through the introduction of AI studies at an early stage, the program seeks to build a generation skilled in emerging technologies, driving the country's innovation capabilities. China's Minister of Education, Huai Jinpeng, underscored that AI is spearheading a technological revolution with enormous opportunities for education. He also announced that a white paper on AI education would be released in 2025 with strategic policies and targets for countrywide implementation.
China's action follows similar global moves to embed AI literacy into school curricula. California has, for instance, passed legislation to incorporate AI ideas into curriculum, and Italy is testing AI applications to enhance digital competences. Nations around the world are now seeing the key position of AI in industries of the future and reforming their education systems to catch up.
By integrating AI education at a young age, China is actively preparing its population for a future powered by AI. This move highlights the significance of technological literacy and places China at the leading edge of the changing AI landscape. The upcoming white paper in 2025 is likely to provide more insights into China's plan for spearheading the AI education revolution.
