In a significant push to secure its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), China has announced that AI education will become mandatory for all students in primary and secondary schools starting September 1, 2025. 

Under this nationwide policy, students from Class 1 to 12 will receive a minimum of eight hours of AI instruction annually.

Schools will have the flexibility to incorporate AI either into existing subjects or offer it as a standalone course. 

The curriculum will be adapted by grade level: primary students will explore foundational AI concepts through engaging, activity-based learning; middle schoolers will study practical applications of AI in everyday life; and high school students will be introduced to advanced technologies and innovation-driven AI projects.

This initiative is part of China’s broader ambition to cultivate homegrown tech talent and enhance its global competitiveness in emerging technologies. By integrating AI into early education, the government aims to build a generation equipped to thrive in a digitally driven future.

Education Minister Huai Jinpeng described AI as a transformative force in learning and development. He announced that a white paper on AI education will be released in 2025, outlining the country’s strategic vision, implementation roadmap, and policy framework for embedding AI across the education system.

China’s proactive approach mirrors growing global trends, as countries like the U.S. and Italy also move toward integrating AI into school curricula. 

However, China’s structured and unified strategy positions it at the forefront of this educational evolution—laying a solid foundation for future innovation, digital literacy, and sustained leadership in AI.

Source: Online 

BDST: 1057 HRS, APR 14, 2025
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