UAE Introduces Artificial Intelligence as Mandatory Subject in Schools
New curriculum spanning kindergarten to 12th grade aims to prepare students for a tech-driven future.
The UAE Cabinet has approved a comprehensive new curriculum that will introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mandatory subject across all levels of government education, from kindergarten through 12th grade, effective from the upcoming academic year.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced this initiative via social media, characterizing it as pivotal in preparing future generations for a rapidly evolving world.
The curriculum aims to provide students with essential knowledge and skills in AI, emphasizing both its technical aspects and the ethical implications associated with the technology.
Sheikh Mohammed articulated the government’s vision to impart a deep understanding of AI, including its data, algorithms, applications, risks, and societal impact, preparing students for a future markedly different from the present.
The new curriculum will focus on seven key areas: data and algorithms, software applications, ethical awareness in AI, real-world AI applications, AI-driven innovation and project design, AI policies, and social engagement.
These core subjects are designed to be age-appropriate and will be integrated into existing school schedules without necessitating additional class hours.
To facilitate this implementation, the Ministry of Education will provide comprehensive resources for educators, including detailed lesson plans and adaptable activities tailored to various learning environments.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education and Human Resources Council, described the integration of AI into public education as a 'strategic milestone,' underscoring the UAE’s commitment to equipping future generations with relevant skills for an increasingly complex technological landscape.
Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chairperson of the Council, emphasized the necessity of preparing children to utilize AI responsibly and ethically.
She noted that the introduction of AI in schools serves as a critical gateway for shaping the future.
Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, indicated that the UAE is among the first nations to comprehensively embed AI into its educational framework, highlighting the initiative as a manifestation of the government’s proactive and forward-looking vision.
Through this educational reform, students are expected not only to understand AI technology but also to apply it effectively and ethically.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced this initiative via social media, characterizing it as pivotal in preparing future generations for a rapidly evolving world.
The curriculum aims to provide students with essential knowledge and skills in AI, emphasizing both its technical aspects and the ethical implications associated with the technology.
Sheikh Mohammed articulated the government’s vision to impart a deep understanding of AI, including its data, algorithms, applications, risks, and societal impact, preparing students for a future markedly different from the present.
The new curriculum will focus on seven key areas: data and algorithms, software applications, ethical awareness in AI, real-world AI applications, AI-driven innovation and project design, AI policies, and social engagement.
These core subjects are designed to be age-appropriate and will be integrated into existing school schedules without necessitating additional class hours.
To facilitate this implementation, the Ministry of Education will provide comprehensive resources for educators, including detailed lesson plans and adaptable activities tailored to various learning environments.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education and Human Resources Council, described the integration of AI into public education as a 'strategic milestone,' underscoring the UAE’s commitment to equipping future generations with relevant skills for an increasingly complex technological landscape.
Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chairperson of the Council, emphasized the necessity of preparing children to utilize AI responsibly and ethically.
She noted that the introduction of AI in schools serves as a critical gateway for shaping the future.
Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, indicated that the UAE is among the first nations to comprehensively embed AI into its educational framework, highlighting the initiative as a manifestation of the government’s proactive and forward-looking vision.
Through this educational reform, students are expected not only to understand AI technology but also to apply it effectively and ethically.
