The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched a new suite of educational materials for students and teachers as part of a nationwide drive to embed artificial intelligence in the classroom. The move comes under the Ministry of Education’s annual “Back to School” campaign and is being promoted through SDAIA’s social media platforms.

Officials said that the initiative is designed to raise awareness of AI tools and show how they can be used to enhance teaching and learning. By introducing students to emerging technologies early, the effort is expected to support cognitive and technical skill development, while enabling teachers to adopt modern, tech-driven methods in their classrooms.

The launch reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which calls for building a knowledge-based society capable of competing globally. Education has been identified as a central pillar of this agenda, with technology and AI seen as key enablers for equipping young Saudis with the skills needed to thrive in future labour markets.

In line with this ambition, the new resources are closely linked to the AI curriculum being rolled out across all levels of general education. The curriculum was developed in partnership with the National Centre for Curriculum, the Ministry of Education, and other government bodies. It features interactive modules adapted for different age groups, with the aim of making complex concepts such as algorithms, data, and machine learning accessible to schoolchildren.

The initiative also complements the wider SAMAI programme, a collaboration between SDAIA, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. SAMAI seeks to train and empower one million Saudis in the field of artificial intelligence.

While the formal curriculum introduces AI fundamentals in schools, the SAMAI initiative provides parallel resources and training opportunities, creating pathways for students to build on their learning and pursue more advanced study or careers in the field.

Bridging the skills gap
Saudi officials and education experts have consistently pointed to a need for future-focused skills training, noting the rapid pace of technological change and its impact on employment. By giving students and teachers access to practical AI tools, the initiative is intended to narrow the gap between traditional academic learning and the demands of a digital economy.

Source: SPA