UAE to introduce AI education from kindergarten level
The authorities of the United Arab Emirates have announced a new educational initiative under which teaching skills related to artificial intelligence will become mandatory at all educational levels — from kindergartens to higher education institutions. The announcement was made by the country's Prime Minister, who emphasized the importance of preparing children early for life in a world of rapid technological advancement.
According to him, the development of AI has an increasingly significant impact on society, the economy, and everyday life. In this context, the government believes it is necessary to provide citizens with fundamental knowledge and skills to help them adapt to change. The educational program will be implemented from the beginning of the next academic year in all public kindergartens, schools, and universities.
The curriculum will cover seven key areas: basic concepts of AI, working with data and algorithms, software, ethical aspects of AI usage, practical applications of the technology in daily life, innovation and design thinking, and understanding the role of AI in policy and its interaction with society.
The UAE’s Minister of Education stated that the curriculum will be tailored to different age groups. In kindergartens, playful and visual formats will introduce children to logic and algorithmic thinking. In schools, the focus will be on basic tech skills, including visual programming, data analysis, and creating simple applications. In universities, more advanced courses will be offered, focused on developing and implementing AI solutions across various economic sectors.
A major priority of the initiative will be fostering ethical responsibility in technology use. Students will be taught to identify risks related to automation, data privacy, information manipulation, and the social implications of AI deployment. Teachers will undergo certification and training programs to meet the new educational standards.
Authorities emphasize that the program’s goal is not just to introduce children to AI, but to foster a lasting culture of technological literacy. According to the government, this will provide a foundation for the country’s future competitiveness in the era of global digital transformation. The project will involve collaboration with universities, research institutions, and tech companies in the UAE and abroad.
Special focus will be placed on hands-on learning, the creation of school laboratories, project-based learning, and hackathons aimed at developing critical thinking and teamwork. Students will also be involved in solving real-world problems — from automating school processes to developing systems for monitoring urban infrastructure.
The UAE has already taken steps toward digital transformation in education. Distance learning, digital platforms, and smart assessment systems are actively being implemented. Making AI education mandatory continues this strategy aimed at creating a high-tech, adaptive learning environment.
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