Norway to Ban Primary School Students from Using Generative AI

The Norwegian government will ban the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology by primary school students starting from the new academic year in late August 2026.

According to a report by Engadget on Friday (19/6) local time, the policy applies to students from grade one to grade seven, covering children aged 6 to 13. The government believes that the use of generative AI could cause children to bypass essential stages in the learning process.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated that schools need to prioritise basic skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic over a reliance on AI technology.

Restrictions on AI use will also be applied to students aged 14 to 16. This age group will only be permitted to use generative AI under the supervision of teachers.

Meanwhile, teenagers aged 17 and above may continue to use AI independently, provided they prioritise responsible usage.

This latest policy continues the Norwegian government’s efforts to limit the use of digital technology within educational environments. In 2024, the country implemented a ban on the use of smartphones in schools.

The Norwegian government noted that the mobile phone ban in schools has yielded several positive impacts, such as a decrease in bullying cases, improved student academic performance, and a reduction in visits to psychological services related to mental health issues. These impacts have been most noticeable among female students.

In addition to limiting AI use in schools, the Norwegian government is also preparing regulations to prohibit children under the age of 16 from using social media.

The draft regulation is scheduled to be submitted to parliament before the end of the year and will follow a similar approach to that implemented by Australia.