Starting in September 2025, schools in Beijing, China, will introduce AI courses for primary and secondary students. Each student will get at least eight hours of AI education per year. This plan aligns with China’s goal to dominate AI innovation.
The Beijing Municipal Education Commission confirmed the news. Now, schools can offer AI as a standalone subject or blend it into existing classes like science and technology. The goal is clear: equip young minds with AI skills early.
Why Teach AI to Kids?
China has been pushing to lead in AI for years but the competition has intensified. Recently, startup DeepSeek released an AI model that rivals U.S. tech giants while using fewer resources. To stay ahead, China is investing in AI education.
Also read: AI Battle Heats Up as DeepSeek Disrupts the Market
Education Minister Huai Jinpeng sees AI as a game changer. He spoke at the National People’s Congress, stressing the importance of AI in learning. He also announced a 2025 white paper that will outline China’s AI education strategy.
What Will Students Learn?
The AI courses will cover a range of topics. Younger students will learn the basics, while older ones will dive deeper. The curriculum may include:
- AI Fundamentals: How AI works and its real-world uses.
- Machine Learning Basics: How computers recognize patterns and make decisions.
- Coding & Robotics: Hands-on programming with AI-powered tools.
- Ethical AI Use: Understanding AI biases and responsible development.
- AI in Daily Life: How AI impacts healthcare, finance, and entertainment.
The AI Education Race
China is not alone in this strategy, many countries are also ramping up AI education. The U.S., Canada, and the U.K. have similar programs. But China’s large-scale approach, backed by the government, sets it apart.
How different nations compare:
| Country | AI Education Initiatives |
| China | AI courses for schoolkids, a government-led strategy |
| United States | AI focused high school programs and coding boot camps |
| United Kingdom | AI apprenticeships and secondary school curriculum updates |
| Canada | AI summer camps and university-level AI research funding |
China’s strategy ensures AI knowledge reaches students early enough to birth next-generation innovation. This could give the country a long-term edge in AI research and development.
