China to introduce AI courses for students as young as 6

It will see children as young as six learning about chatbots, AI technology and ethics as part of a push to strengthen its position in artificial intelligence.

The Beijing Municipal Education Commission announced that schools must provide at least eight hours of AI instruction per academic year, according to Fortune. The curriculum can be integrated into subjects such as information technology or science or taught as a standalone course.

The initiative is part of a broader plan to develop a multi-year AI curriculum, establish a training system and promote AI education nationwide. China’s expansion of AI education follows the rapid rise of DeepSeek, a domestic AI company that has gained global attention.

The Ministry of Education has designated 184 schools as pilot institutions for AI programs, laying the foundation for a nationwide rollout. Education Minister Huai Jinpeng has called AI the "golden key" to the country’s educational future.

China is not alone in integrating AI into education.

Estonia recently announced AI Leap 2025 to be launched on Sept. 1 to provide 20,000 students in grades 10-11 and 3,000 teachers with free access to leading AI applications and training, according to e-Estonia.

"Artificial intelligence has permanently changed the world, and like all sectors, the education system must adapt to these changes," Estonian President Alar Karis said.

A child using computer. Photo from Pexels

Canada and South Korea have introduced AI-powered digital textbooks and teacher support programs, while a private school in the U.K. launched a "teacherless" classroom where students use virtual reality headsets and AI platforms instead of traditional instruction.

In the U.S., education provider McGraw Hill introduced AI Reader and Writing Assistant in 2024, offering students digital book markups and real-time writing feedback.

The increasing threat of deepfakes and the growing use of AI tools have sparked debate over their impact on children. Chinese lawmakers have warned of the need for stricter regulation to prevent misuse of AI technology.

The United Nations has emphasized the need for inclusive AI tools, clear guidelines and a human-centered approach to education to ensure children's safety and manage risks.

Education business leaders share similar concerns.

"Our levels of brand trust are so high that the greatest risk for us is not moving too slowly on AI, it’s moving too fast on AI," Dylan Arena, chief data science and AI officer at U.S. education company McGraw Hill, told Fortune.