Local governments are beginning to take action after Beijing said it wants all primary and secondary students to study the advanced tech.<\/b>
\nHangzhou, in China\u2019s Zhejiang province, will introduce mandatory artificial intelligence (AI) courses for primary and secondary schools starting in the new semester \u2013 part of a nationwide strategy to nurture talent in the rapidly growing sector.
The initiative seeks to build a talent pipeline while improving educators\u2019 ability to use smart tools and protect data, covering both student and teacher training, according to two documents released by the city\u2019s education bureau.
Schools will have flexibility in how they deliver the lessons \u2013 either by concentrating them within a single week or integrating AI content into subjects like information technology and science.
AI-focused projects may be incorporated into local curricula, allowing interested students to engage in advanced studies and hands-on experience. Basic AI-related activities may also feature in after-school programmes.
Hangzhou, home to fast-growing tech start-ups like DeepSeek and Unitree Robotics, unveiled the measures at a press conference on Friday, according to The Paper, requiring at least 10 class hours of instruction each year. The sector has rapidly emerged as a growth engine amid volatile trade and tech restrictions imposed by the United States.
The guidelines detail content, requirements and teaching methods across grade levels. In the first two years of primary school, students will be introduced to everyday AI applications, interact with basic devices and learn about the role of technology in daily life. Classes will stress the importance of responsible use, with a focus on privacy.<\/p>\n