Kazakhstan's Parliament Rejects AI Ban in Schools, Opting for Ethical Code

Kazakhstan Debates AI in Schools: Ethical Code Replaces Ban Kazakhstan's parliament recently debated the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) by schoolchildren. Concerns were raised about the potential for widespread cheating and the need to maintain academic integrity. However, instead of a complete ban, lawmakers and the Ministry of Education are focusing on creating an ethical code of conduct for AI use in educational settings. One of the bill's developers, Ekaterina Smyslyaeva, stated directly, "Bans don't work." This sentiment reflects a broader acceptance of AI as an unavoidable part of modern life. The Ministry of Education agrees, acknowledging that AI is already integrated into many aspects of daily life, and the focus should be on teaching responsible use. The new approach emphasizes teaching students to use AI ethically and responsibly. Starting with the new academic year, an updated education standard will integrate AI and other information tools into the school curriculum, not just in computer science classes, but across various subjects. The goal is to foster critical thinking and responsible technology use, ensuring students learn to analyze information, create projects, and avoid plagiarism. This decision highlights a shift toward embracing technology in education while emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations. By focusing on responsible AI use rather than outright prohibition, Kazakhstan aims to equip its students with the skills to navigate the digital age ethically and effectively.