Kazakhstan to introduce AI studies from first grade

By Alimat Aliyeva

Kazakhstan is updating its school curriculum to include artificial intelligence education and prepare students for the growing role of digital technologies in everyday life, AzerNEWS reports.

As part of the changes, the subject “Digital Literacy” for grades 1–4 will be renamed “Digital Literacy and Artificial Intelligence,” while “Computer Science” for grades 5–11 will become “Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence.” This means that students will begin learning about AI concepts from their first years at school.

For younger students in grades 1–4, the new “Media Literacy and AI” section will include 17 learning objectives. Children will explore artificial intelligence through simple examples connected to everyday life, while also learning about online safety, personal data protection, and responsible behavior in the digital world.

Overall, the updated curriculum will include 43 learning objectives related to artificial intelligence. Students will gradually learn how AI works, how it can be used in different fields, and what ethical issues may arise from the development of new technologies.

In addition, Kazakhstan is preparing special methodological guidelines to help teachers use artificial intelligence safely and effectively in the classroom. These recommendations will support educators in introducing modern digital tools while maintaining a balance between technology and traditional learning methods.

The reform reflects a global trend toward AI education, as many countries are increasingly focusing on preparing younger generations for a future where artificial intelligence will play an important role in science, business, and everyday communication.