Norway AI Ban: Government Restricts Generative Artificial Intelligence Use for Students Under 14 Amid Learning Concerns

Norway will impose a near ban on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools by elementary school pupils and introduce stricter controls for older students, as the government seeks to address concerns about learning outcomes and classroom development. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced the new standards on Friday, saying the measures will take effect from the start of the new school year in late August.

The move comes as Norway grapples with a broad decline in educational test scores and follows a series of reforms aimed at strengthening traditional learning methods. In 2024, the government banned smartphones in schools and expanded teachers' authority to maintain discipline in classrooms. List of Countries Banning Social Media for Children.

Elementary School Pupils Face Near AI Ban in Norway

Under the new guidelines, pupils from first through seventh grade, typically aged 6 to 13, should generally not use generative AI tools in school.

According to the government, the restrictions are intended to ensure that younger students develop core academic skills without relying on technology that could bypass essential learning processes. Why Has UAE Banned Children Under 15 From Using Social Media?

Using AI increases the risk that young children skip important steps in their education, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre told a press conference on Friday. "The most important thing in school is that our children learn to read, write and do mathematics," Støre said, adding that the new standards will be imposed from the new school year beginning in late August.

Limited Use Allowed for Older Students

The government said students in lower secondary school, aged 14 to 16, may use AI tools cautiously and only under teacher supervision. For students in upper secondary education, aged 17 to 19, the focus will shift towards learning how to use AI responsibly and effectively.

Officials said the objective is to prepare older students for higher education and future workplaces, where AI technologies are expected to play an increasing role.

Norway was among the early adopters of digital technology in classrooms, introducing computers in schools during the 1990s and expanding tablet use after the launch of the iPad in 2010. The transition reduced reliance on traditional textbooks and handwritten learning methods.

However, the government signalled a policy shift on Friday, announcing plans to introduce legislation that would fund greater use of physical books in classrooms. The proposal marks a reversal from years of increased dependence on tablets and digital learning tools.

The AI restrictions form part of a wider government strategy aimed at limiting children's exposure to digital technologies. In April, Norway announced plans to ban children from using social media until the age of 16, following similar initiatives introduced by Australia and several other countries.

Officials argue that reducing screen time and strengthening traditional educational practices could help improve learning outcomes and support children's overall development.

The latest measures reflect growing concerns among policymakers about the impact of technology on education.

As governments worldwide explore how artificial intelligence can be integrated into schools, Norway has opted for a more cautious approach, particularly for younger children.

By combining stricter controls on AI use with increased investment in books and classroom discipline, Norwegian authorities say they hope to strengthen foundational skills such as reading, writing and mathematics while ensuring students are prepared to use emerging technologies appropriately later in life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 22, 2026 06:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).