Rapid technological advancements, changing labor market demands, and the widespread penetration of artificial intelligence into all spheres of life require an update to educational content. Systematic work in this area began in 2025. Since September of that year, the work has been ongoing in stages, according to the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The legal framework for this work was subsequently strengthened. In November 2025, the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On Artificial Intelligence" was adopted, followed in May 2026 by a Presidential Decree on the introduction of artificial intelligence into the secondary education system. As part of the implementation of these documents, the state compulsory education standard, standard curricula, and standard syllabi have been updated.
The subject "Digital Literacy" in grades 1-4 has been renamed "Digital Literacy and Artificial Intelligence," and "Computer Science" in grades 5-11 has been renamed "Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence." This is not just a change in subject names. Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of digital technology and computer science. In this regard, new sections on artificial intelligence and 43 learning objectives have been added to the curriculum.
Today, schoolchildren are already using artificial intelligence tools in their daily lives. The challenge now is to teach them not just how to use this technology, but how to use it consciously, effectively, and responsibly.
For grades 1-4, the "Media Literacy and AI" section includes 17 learning objectives. Students will become familiar with artificial intelligence through simple examples from everyday life and master the fundamentals of digital security, personal data protection, and responsible behavior in the digital environment.
For grades 5-9, the "Computer Thinking and Programming" and "Health, Safety, and AI" sections include 14 learning objectives. Students will learn to effectively use artificial intelligence tools in the educational process, formulate queries effectively, critically evaluate results, and adhere to the principles of cybersecurity and academic integrity.
In grades 10-11, the "Data Management and Artificial Intelligence" section includes 12 learning objectives. The primary focus is on understanding the principles of artificial intelligence and its practical applications. The curriculum includes the fundamentals of machine learning, neural networks, data analysis, and applied cryptography.
The updated curricula for these subjects were successfully tested last academic year and received a positive expert opinion. They are currently undergoing approval in accordance with established procedures.
Furthermore, methodological recommendations for teachers on the effective and safe use of artificial intelligence in the educational process are being developed.
