How can the younger generation be prepared for a future where artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly permeates all aspects of life? Tajikistan seems to have found an answer. Lessons in AI are being introduced into school curricula through an initiative by the Council on Artificial Intelligence under the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies.
Initially, a pilot project was launched in five schools, but high interest from students and teachers quickly led to a second phase, adding five more educational institutions.
Previously, the basics of AI were taught at:
- Dushanbe International School
- Contofield International School
- Navovar School
- "Kafolat" Gymnasium
- Tajik-Russian Boarding Lyceum “Hotam and PV”
Now, the following schools have joined:
- UNESCO Associated Private School "Empire of Knowledge"
- Private Educational Institution "Horizon"
- Private School "Friendship of Nations"
- Private School "Maktabi Kamoli Khujandi"
- Private School named after Abdurahmoni Jomi
This brings the total number of participating schools to ten, with an average of 15–20 students in each learning the latest technologies.
First steps into the world of high technology
A major step in expanding the project was an intensive program for teachers from three schools in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region. Over three days, educators engaged in a hybrid format to learn AI teaching methodologies, equipping them to show students how modern technologies are transforming industries ranging from healthcare to education.
After the introductory sessions, each student will undertake an independent project to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. This approach fosters critical thinking and demonstrates how innovations can benefit society.
The Council on Artificial Intelligence plans to further expand the project, introducing AI lessons in more schools across different regions. Teachers will receive ongoing support, including regular consultations and peer exchanges.
This large-scale initiative aligns with the National Strategy for AI Development, which envisions advanced technologies contributing up to 5% of Tajikistan's GDP by 2040. Most importantly, hundreds of students are already taking their first steps into the world of high technology, which will be an integral part of their future.
