In a bid to equip students with essential skills for the digital age, the Singapore government has announced plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) education in primary and secondary schools starting from 2025. The “AI for Fun” programme, under the “Code for Fun” (CFF) initiative, will offer five-to ten-hour modules to students, providing them with hands-on experience in AI technology.
The programme aims to build on the existing 10 hours of CFF modules, allowing students to explore AI concepts, such as understanding smart robots and training them to respond to external signals. Additionally, students will learn about ethical AI uses, digital literacies, and responsible online behavior, including verifying online information sources, data security, and privacy.
Teachers will play a crucial role in guiding students on how to utilize AI to support their learning, emphasizing the importance of academic integrity and proper data handling. The programme will also focus on developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing them for an increasingly digital future.
To support the implementation of the “AI for Fun” programme, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) will launch the Smart Nation Educator Fellowship in 2025. This fellowship aims to develop a pool of 250 educators with expertise in digital skills, targeting Teacher Leaders and Senior Specialists. Participants will engage in panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and learning journeys, enabling them to design effective teaching strategies and curriculum that support students’ digital skills development.
In a separate initiative, the government will invest S$120 million in “AI for science”, a programme led by the National Research Foundation (NRF). This initiative aims to develop and adopt AI methods and tools across multiple scientific domains, enhancing research productivity and advancing scientific discovery. The programme will also cultivate interdisciplinary researchers proficient in AI technology and one or more scientific domains, and facilitate collaborations between Singapore-based researchers and international counterparts.
The introduction of AI education in primary and secondary schools marks a significant step towards preparing Singapore’s future workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. By investing in AI education and research, the government aims to ensure that Singapore remains competitive and vibrant in the global landscape.