Norway to Ban Primary School Students from Using Generative AI

The Norwegian government will ban the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) by primary school students starting from the new academic year beginning at the end of August 2026. The policy applies to students in grades one through seven, or children aged 6 to 13 years. The government assessed that the use of generative AI could cause children to skip crucial stages in the learning process. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated that schools need to prioritise fundamental skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic over dependence on AI technology. Restrictions on AI use will also be imposed on students aged 14 to 16, who will only be permitted to use generative AI under teacher supervision. Meanwhile, teenagers aged 17 and above can continue to use AI independently, provided they emphasise responsible usage. This latest policy continues the Norwegian government’s measures to limit the use of digital technology in educational settings. In 2024, the country banned the use of smartphones in schools. The government reported that the smartphone ban yielded several positive impacts, including a decrease in bullying cases, improved student academic performance, and reduced visits to psychological services related to mental health issues. These effects were most pronounced among female students. Beyond restricting AI 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 already implemented in Australia.