Primary and Secondary School Students Banned from Using ChatGPT and Gemini

Jakarta — Seven ministries have signed a joint decision (SKB) establishing guidelines for the use and learning of digital technology and artificial intelligence. One of the key provisions prohibits primary and secondary school students from using instant AI tools such as ChatGPT.

“The core principle is that usage should align with children’s readiness, which is closely tied to age. The younger the child, the more controlled their use should be. Therefore, primary and secondary education students are not permitted to use instant AI, for example, ChatGPT and similar tools,” said Pratikno, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, on Thursday (12 March 2026).

However, Pratikno clarified that AI is not entirely prohibited. The technology can be used to support educational facilities and learning.

One example is robotics simulation for primary school education. However, the guidelines avoid uses that could reduce cognitive development in children.

“This is not an outright ban, because we also need to utilise this technology to support education. For example, robotics simulation for primary school education could use AI, but it would be designed specifically for educational purposes. The aim is to avoid brain rot and the reduction of cognitive ability,” Pratikno explained.

Pratikno also noted that the joint decision does not obstruct technology but rather mitigates the risks of using digital technology and AI.

With this seven-ministry SKB, Pratikno added, the goal is to develop a generation that uses digital technology and AI wisely. This is to support the educational ecosystem for young people.

Technology is expected to be used responsibly, so that Indonesian children are not controlled by technology but instead master it.

“Our objective is for our children not to be controlled by technology but to master technology itself. This is about digital wellness — using technology wisely and intelligently,” he said.

The seven-ministry SKB serves as a guideline for all educational levels, including both formal and informal education. “The key point for children is to wait until they are ready to use technology in accordance with their maturity level,” Pratikno affirmed.