Saudi Arabia plans to embed artificial intelligence training throughout its public education system beginning next academic year, marking an ambitious push to develop technical skills as the kingdom seeks to diversify its economy away from oil dependency.

The nationwide curriculum, spanning from elementary through university levels, aims to cultivate domestic AI expertise while positioning the kingdom as a regional technology hub.

Multiple government agencies collaborated on the initiative, including the education ministry, communications regulator, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on learning tailored to different age groups across the educational spectrum.

Education officials previewed the programme at a capability development conference in April, following a successful pilot targeting final-year secondary students. 

The broader rollout will incorporate AI competencies into standardized student assessments, ensuring systematic adoption across Saudi Arabia's schools.

The move reflects Saudi Arabia's broader technological ambitions as it invests heavily in emerging sectors including artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.