China begins roll out of AI courses in primary, secondary schools ‘to dominate global sector’

China is set to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) courses in primary and secondary schools in a bid to strengthen the country’s goal to dominate the sector.

According to a statement on the Beijing Municipal Education Commission’s website, schools in Beijing, the capital of China, will offer at least eight hours of AI classes periodically — starting from the coming fall semester which begins on September 1.

The statement said the schools can run them as stand-alone courses or integrate the courses with existing curricula like information technology and science.

“Build municipal general basic courses. Implement the requirements of the national curriculum plan and curriculum standards, and offer all courses related to artificial intelligence education,” the introductory part of the document reads.

“Explore the establishment of local courses for artificial intelligence education in primary and secondary schools, develop the ‘Beijing Local Curriculum Outline for Artificial Intelligence Education in Primary and Secondary Schools (Trial)’.

“Compile primary and secondary school artificial intelligence education and teaching guidelines and student learning manuals based on the cognitive abilities of students at different stages of education, develop supporting course resources with diverse forms and dynamic updates, and promptly reflect new technologies, new methods, and new achievements.”

China’s AI battle with the US reached new heights this year when DeepSeek dropped a leaner, faster model that rivalled those from the United States.

Beijing’s new education plan follows a pledge by the government to support the extensive application of large-scale AI models and the development of new generation intelligent terminals and manufacturing equipment.

Recently, Huai Jinpeng, China’s minister of education, said the country will release a white paper on AI education in 2025.