Saudi Arabia To Teach AI In Schools
Saudi Arabia has launched a new high school course titled 'Introduction to Artificial Intelligence' as part of its efforts to localise AI education and build a digitally skilled generation.
The initiative was announced by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) in partnership with the Ministry of Education during the Human Capability Initiative 2025 conference, a high-level forum that brought together more than 300 global leaders, policymakers, and experts across academia, the private sector, and non-profit organisations.
The course, targeting 12th-grade students in the general track, is being introduced as an elective and is designed to align with global technological trends while offering students foundational knowledge in AI and its real-world applications. More than 50,000 students across the Kingdom are expected to benefit from the first phase of the programme.
Delivered through a custom-built digital platform, the course offers an interactive learning experience that blends multimedia content, teacher supervision, and project-based assessments throughout the academic year. SDAIA said the platform reflects a modern teaching model that places equal emphasis on theoretical understanding and practical engagement.
'This initiative represents a key step toward empowering the next generation with the tools and skills they need to thrive in the data-driven economies of the future,' SDAIA said in a statement.
The curriculum also falls within Saudi Arabia's vision to become a regional and global leader in data and AI, reinforcing the Kingdom's shift toward knowledge-based and innovation-led growth. The course is one of several projects led by SDAIA to boost national capabilities, improve data infrastructure, and cultivate AI talent across various sectors.
Source Gulf News
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Tribune
25-05-2025
- Daily Tribune
Vision for Greener, Tech-Driven Future : Bahraini MPs call for renewable energy and AI partnerships at Mediterranean forum
Solar panels, wind farms, and digital links featured in Bahrain's pitch to Mediterranean lawmakers this week as MPs set out plans for shared infrastructure, closer ties, and smoother trade during a summit in Marrakesh. MP Mohammed Mousa, Chairman of the Public Utilities and Environment Committee, said Bahrain is backing renewable energy and modern technology as part of its wider development effort led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He added that Parliament and the Cabinet, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, are working together to meet international goals. From From left, MPs Mohammed Mousa and Hanan Fardan These include overhauling the country's energy systems, improving key networks, and drafting laws that keep pace with changes abroad. Second Session Mousa was speaking during the second session of the forum titled Energy Transition, Adaptation and Energy Security: Strategic Choices, part of the third Parliamentary Economic Forum of the Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly. He was joined by MPs Hanan Fardan and Basema Abdulkarim, who also took part in the opening session on trade and finance shifts between the Arabian Gulf and the Mediterranean. Fardan told the gathering that Bahrain is keen to work more closely with Mediterranean countries in trade, investment, and digital development. Broader Direction She said the approach reflects the country's broader direction, shaped by royal guidance and carried forward by both Parliament and government. The lawmaker pointed to Bahrain's work to improve its digital infrastructure and maintain its standing as a financial hub. On energy, she said the Kingdom is expanding its use of renewables, with solar and wind schemes forming part of long-term planning. Regional Advisory Group In her remarks during the forum's third session titled Artificial Intelligence and its Governance: Strengthening Parliamentary Oversight, Fardan called for the creation of a regional advisory group bringing together parliaments, researchers, and technology firms. Such a body, she said, would support a shared understanding of artificial intelligence, similar to the model used by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The aim, she added, is to provide parliaments with sharper tools when drafting new rules.
Gulf Insider
25-05-2025
- Gulf Insider
UAE to Introduce Mandatory AI Subject in Schools From 2025: What Does This Mean for Teachers
Teachers in the UAE could face challenges explaining artificial intelligence (AI) to kindergarteners if they are not equipped with the right tools and training, education experts warn, as the nation prepares to introduce AI as a mandatory subject from the 2025–2026 academic year. 'Yes, and that's why it's crucial we support teachers with the right tools and training,' Alistair Jarvis CBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor at the University of London in Dubai told Arabian Business. 'Explaining AI to very young learners requires age-appropriate language and resources, as well as confidence in how to relate these concepts meaningfully to the classroom and to everyday life,' Jarvis added. Earlier this month, the UAE announced artificial intelligence will become a mandatory subject across all public schools, positioning the nation among the first countries to integrate AI into its national curriculum from kindergarten to Grade 12. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the move will prepare 'children for a time unlike ours, with conditions different from ours.' 'As part of the UAE's long-term plans to prepare future generations for a different future, a new world, and advanced skills, the UAE government today approved the final curriculum to introduce 'Artificial Intelligence' as a subject across all stages of government education in the UAE, from kindergarten to grade 12, starting from the next academic year,' Sheikh Mohammed said on X. 'Our goal is to teach our children a deep understanding of AI from a technical perspective, while also fostering their awareness of the ethics of this new technology, enhancing their understanding of its data, algorithms, applications, risks, and its connection to society and life,' Sheikh Mohammed added. The UAE's AI curriculum will focus on seven key areas: foundational concepts, data and algorithms, software use, ethical awareness, real-world applications, innovation and project design, and policies and community engagement. The curriculum offers tailored units for each age group. In kindergarten, children engage in visual and interactive activities to discover AI and digital technologies through stories and play. Cycle 1 students compare machines to humans, develop digital thinking skills, and explore AI applications. Cycle 2 students design and evaluate AI systems, learn about bias and algorithms, and focus on ethical AI use. Cycle 3 prepares students for higher education and careers by teaching command engineering and simulating real-world scenarios. The new curriculum will be integrated within existing school schedules without requiring additional teaching hours. It will be taught by designated teachers as part of the Computing, Creative Design, and Innovation subject. The Ministry of Education will provide guides, including activities, models, and lesson plans adaptable to various classroom settings. What UAE educators need for AI education success Education leaders acknowledge the initiative presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in preparing teachers and ensuring age-appropriate delivery. 'Teachers need structured training on the effective and ethical use of AI; understanding its capabilities, limitations, and how to integrate it meaningfully into learning, rather than defaulting to its use. Ensuring they are comfortable with AI is key to helping students use it as a positive learning tool,' Jarvis said, further highlighting concerns about over-reliance among young learners. 'One concern is over-reliance; children may trust AI outputs without question. There's also the issue of misinformation or unverified content. That said, if introduced early and thoughtfully, AI can become a natural part of the learning process, with students learning to engage critically with it from the outset,' he added. Echoing the sentiment, Kathryn Booth, Director of the School of Qualifications at Pearson MENA, noted the developmental considerations for younger students. 'At this developmental stage, children often attribute human-like qualities to AI technologies such as smart assistants or chatbots. This can lead to a heightened trust in what machines say, even over their teachers,' Booth said. However, she viewed this as an opportunity. 'This natural curiosity presents an ideal opportunity for educators to begin fostering digital literacy. Rather than shielding young learners from AI, teachers can introduce them to age-appropriate concepts, encouraging them to explore how these tools work and what makes them tick.' Professional development requirements for UAE AI teaching programme Booth further stressed the need for comprehensive professional development. 'For teachers to deliver AI education effectively, comprehensive professional development is key. They need more than just technical knowledge—they require a deep understanding of pedagogy, ethical frameworks, and real-world applications of AI to confidently guide students across all age groups.' She outlined specific training requirements, which should include 'hands-on exposure to AI tools, instructional resources tailored by grade level, and clear guidelines on responsible use. Ongoing support is just as important, whether through digital platforms, peer collaboration, or partnerships with edtech leaders.' In addition, Rami Abu Arja, Senior Innovation Marketing Manager at Yasmina, emphasised the importance of cross-disciplinary integration. 'UNESCO's AI and Education: Guidance for Policy-Makers highlights that successful AI programs like those in China and Finland treat AI not as a standalone subject, but as a cross-disciplinary tool integrated into science, math, the arts, and more,' Abu Arja said. 'Additionally, topics like data privacy, fairness, and responsible use need to be part of the conversation from the start. Crucially, the study underscores that teacher training is a make-or-break factor; without it, even well-designed initiatives often fall short. To truly prepare a future-ready generation, students must learn to work with AI, not just learn about it,' he added. UAE AI skills prepare students for $46 billion market by 2030 The initiative aims to prepare students for a job market where AI literacy is increasingly essential. 'Early exposure to AI can significantly help UAE students secure better job opportunities in the future,' Abu Arja explained, adding that as AI continues to be adopted across industries such as healthcare, finance, and logistics, students who develop AI skills early on will be better prepared for the demands of a digital-first job market. 'According to Microsoft and LinkedIn's 2024 Work Trend Index, 66 per cent of business leaders say they would not hire someone without AI skills,' Booth said. 'Pearson's research shows that generative AI can save workers 78 million hours per week on routine tasks, highlighting just how deeply integrated these tools are becoming in everyday roles,' she added. Moreover, the economic implications extend beyond individual career prospects. 'Considering that the country's AI market is expected to reach $46.33 billion by 2030, by embedding AI into the national curriculum, the UAE is equipping its youth with the tools to thrive in a knowledge-based economy. This initiative isn't just about staying relevant—it's about empowering students to create, innovate, and lead in an increasingly digital world,' Booth said. How UAE AI education compares to Singapore, South Korea and China The UAE's initiative places it among countries already incorporating AI education. 'Several leading education systems are already incorporating AI, including Singapore, South Korea, and China. The UAE is positioning itself among global leaders in recognising AI's importance early on,' Jarvis said. 'In the United States, nearly nine in ten educators support teaching AI in a developmentally appropriate way before high school graduation. Countries across Europe and Asia are also developing AI curricula, often emphasising ethics, critical thinking, and real-world application,' Booth added, further explaining that the UAE has a 'proactive' approach because of its 'bold, integrated approach across all grade levels, starting from kindergarten. This proactive strategy aligns with its long-term visions, such as the UAE Centennial 2071 and its commitment to becoming a global hub for innovation.' Data protection and equal access among key challenges in AI school implementation Nevertheless, these UAE experts have also identified several challenges requiring attention. 'While these challenges are real, they are not insurmountable. With thoughtful implementation, the right tools, and clear ethical frameworks, we can ensure that AI in classrooms empowers learners and enhances their education in meaningful ways,' Booth said. She also emphasised the importance of equal access, noting that successful AI education implementation requires careful planning and resource allocation to address disparities in home technology access, making school-based provision of AI tools essential. In addition, 'parents may have concerns around things like increased screen time, which schools will need to address openly and responsibly,' Abu Arja added. There is a need for ethical AI education All experts emphasised the importance of ethical AI education, with Jarvis advocating for early ethical discussions. 'We must show students that AI is a tool to enhance – not replace – thinking. Teaching them how and when to use AI effectively builds digital literacy and encourages critical analysis. Conversations around ethics, fairness, data privacy, and bias in AI systems should start young, helping children become informed and responsible users,' he said. Another way to boost ethical AI education is through the use and support of interactive learning methods, according to Abu Arja. 'Real-world examples showing how AI can solve meaningful problems, while also highlighting its risks, encourage thoughtful use from an early age. Interactive learning methods can make these lessons more engaging and effective,' he said. 'For instance, a case study from Sweden showed that role-playing games focused on AI fairness led to deeper student engagement than traditional lectures. Activities like these allow children to experience responsible AI in action. Sharing stories of individuals using AI ethically and for good can further inspire students, helping them see how they, too, can make a positive impact with the tools they're learning to use,' he added. Moreover, the UAE's AI initiative will influence broader regional educational shifts 'The UAE's move to integrate AI into education has the potential to inspire broader changes across the region. As a recognised leader in technological innovation, the UAE often sets the pace for others in the Middle East, and its success could encourage neighboring countries to explore similar approaches,' Abu Arja said. Booth projected wider economic implications, suggesting that the potential $320 billion contribution AI could make to the regional economy by 2030 will likely prompt other education systems in the region to follow suit, particularly those seeking economic diversification and high-skill talent development. The UAE has partnered with Presight (a G42 company), AI71, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and Emirates College for Advanced Education to accelerate technology adoption in education, supporting the country's vision to invest in people and create a future-ready education system driving sustainable national development. 'The UAE's initiative is more than a curriculum change—it's a generational investment in human capital. By embedding AI across the school system, the country is building the foundations for a future-ready workforce,' Booth concluded.
Biz Bahrain
25-05-2025
- Biz Bahrain
Capital School Recognised Among Top Performers in TIMSS
The Capital School has been honoured in a national ceremony celebrating outstanding public and private schools in the International Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), marking a significant milestone in the school's ongoing journey of academic excellence and leadership. The recognition reflects the school's clear strategic vision to nurture a generation equipped with future-ready knowledge and global competencies. Mr. Adel Al Safar, Chairman of Al Safar Group, which owns the Capital School, emphasised that this recognition serves as a testament to the school's ongoing commitment to educational distinction, and also expressed his appreciation for the Ministry of Education's continuous efforts to improve institutional performance, enhance the quality of education, and implement comprehensive strategies aimed at advancing the teaching of mathematics and science across the Kingdom. Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Mr. Al Safar reiterated the school's strong partnership with the Ministry of Education, noting that the Capital School remains fully aligned with national educational objectives, and affirmed that the school upholds its mission of integrating religious and ethical values into every aspect of its curriculum, ensuring that students thrive in a safe and principled learning environment grounded in Islamic and national ideals. Mr. Al Safar further stated that the Capital School is committed to maintaining a balanced educational approach that embraces both tradition and innovation. In the coming period, the school will intensify efforts to enrich its programmes in mathematics and science, placing greater emphasis on developing students' critical thinking skills and effectively integrating technology into the learning process. These initiatives are in line with the Ministry's forward-looking educational strategy and Bahrain's Vision 2030. This national recognition comes as a result of the Capital School's outstanding achievements in international assessments, underscoring its adherence to global standards in STEM education. The school's success is rooted in its adoption of modern pedagogical practices, its focus on equipping students to excel in global evaluations, and its emphasis on cultivating advanced analytical and scientific skills. The dedication and expertise of the school's faculty have played a central role in guiding students toward academic excellence and securing top scores in these competitive international benchmarks.
