How Schools Should Manage AI Usage by Pupils and Teachers: From Policy to the Classroom

In basic education, numeracy and literacy are the foundation or fundamental building blocks upon which artificial intelligence (Al) learning is built.

Without strong literacy and numeracy skills, pupils may struggle to understand Al concepts, interpret information, and apply Al tools effectively. This means the foundation phase, which is junior primary (pre-primary and grades 1 to 3), is critical for future skilled workers.

The motto for the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture is ‘Foundation First, Excellence Always’.

Literacy enables pupils to understand, communicate and critically evaluate Al-related information, while numeracy develops the mathematical and analytical thinking required to understand data, algorithms and machine learning.

In basic education, pupils are introduced to AI concepts through coding and robotics from junior primary subjects like design and technology or information communications or as a standalone additional programme. In secondary schools, programming is introduced in computer science, and Al continues to be integrated into other science and technical subjects.

In schools, it is critical to leverage technology to improve access to education, strengthen teaching and learning processes, enhance assessment systems and improve education management and planning.