China’s Artificial Intelligence Education Policy

This study comprehensively analyzed the current status and characteristics of China's artificial intelligence (AI) education policy. China has emerged as a global AI powerhouse, ranking first worldwide in generative AI patent applications from 2014 to 2023 and officially approving over 80 large language models. The government actively supports AI technological self-reliance and industrial development through its ‘AI+ Industry’ strategy and large-scale national investment funds, with approximately 4,500 AI companies currently operating. In the K-12 education sector, AI education will be mandatory for all elementary, middle, and high school students nationwide by 2025. The curriculum centers on four core competencies: computational thinking, digital learning and innovation, information awareness, and social responsibility. The curriculum progressively deepens from introductory AI technology experiences for lower elementary grades to AI algorithm design in high school. Beijing and Shanghai are leading innovative educational models, such as spiral curriculum design and AI-based educational governance. In higher education, efforts focus on cultivating world-class universities through the ‘Double First-Class Initiative’ and developing ‘AI+X’ convergence talent. Leading universities like Tsinghua University and Fudan University are spearheading AI convergence education models. China is enhancing global competitiveness across all AI domains by combining government support, private sector technological capabilities, and AI-centered innovation within the education system. This serves as a core strategy for securing national development momentum.