The Punjab government has approved an ambitious plan to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) education for primary school students, making Punjab one of the first provinces in Pakistan to integrate AI concepts into early childhood learning.

Under the proposed initiative, AI education will be introduced for students up to Grade 5, with AI laboratories to be established in primary schools across the province. The government also plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence as a separate subject through a phased implementation strategy.

Officials said a dedicated AI curriculum has already been developed, and qualified educators will be recruited and trained to deliver the subject effectively. The initiative aims to equip young learners with foundational knowledge of emerging technologies while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy from an early age.

To ensure broader implementation, authorities have also proposed incorporating basic AI concepts into existing science textbooks if funding constraints delay the establishment of dedicated AI laboratories or the introduction of a standalone subject.

The proposed curriculum is expected to receive final approval in the coming months, with province-wide implementation planned for the 2027 academic year.

Education experts believe the initiative will prepare students for the demands of the future digital economy by introducing them to cutting-edge technologies at an early stage. The program also aligns with the Punjab government’s broader vision of modernizing education and promoting innovation-driven learning.

Officials say the initiative represents a significant step toward building a technology-ready generation capable of contributing to Pakistan’s future in artificial intelligence, science, and innovation.