Estonia’s Push to Integrate AI in Education
As the summer holidays approach, schools across Estonia are preparing for a different kind of break. Instead of taking time off, teachers will be diving into an intensive learning program focused on artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the country to ensure that the next generation is well-equipped to use and understand this rapidly evolving technology.
Estonia has long been recognized for its advanced digital infrastructure. Over the past two decades, the nation has digitized nearly all of its public services and is a global leader in cybersecurity. However, President Alar Karis has emphasized that AI represents a new frontier—one that requires careful navigation.
“We try to take advantage of this technology and we start from schools, and not only from schools but from teachers, because education is of utmost importance,” Karis explained. He added that teachers will play a crucial role in passing on their knowledge to students, ensuring that they are prepared for a future where AI is deeply integrated into daily life.
The Role of AI in Teaching and Learning
AI has the potential to revolutionize how teachers plan lessons and provide personalized feedback to students. According to Karis, the technology can help address gaps in learning, especially for students who have missed school due to illness or other reasons. “Teachers do not have the time to catch up with every student individually,” he said. “AI can assist in these situations.”
However, the rapid development of AI also raises ethical concerns. One major issue is the phenomenon of “hallucination,” where AI systems generate information that is inaccurate or entirely fabricated. Studies have also shown that over-reliance on chatbots may impact students’ critical thinking skills.
Karis acknowledged these challenges but stressed the importance of teaching people how to use AI responsibly. “It’s the same with every technology. If you don’t read books anymore, you start using only this chatbot, of course, you are getting dumber, but that’s why we have to teach [people] how to use it smartly,” he said.
He also noted that modern students are already familiar with tools like ChatGPT and are using them beyond simple copy-pasting. “They really use it,” he said, highlighting the need for educators to adapt and guide students in making the most of these tools.
Ethical Considerations and Trust
One of the key concerns raised by educators is the use of AI to complete assignments or homework. Students may rely on chatbots to write essays or solve problems, which can make it difficult for teachers to assess genuine understanding. Karis emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that teachers and professors should be honest about their use of AI.
“Trust is essential,” he said. “If teachers are using AI, they should admit it.” This principle applies not only to students but also to the broader educational system, as the integration of AI continues to evolve.
While OpenAI’s ChatGPT has been mentioned as a potential tool, the Estonian government is exploring partnerships with multiple tech companies. The AI Leap program, a private-public initiative, is currently in negotiations with US-based firms such as OpenAI and Anthropic.
Language and Cultural Preservation
As a small country with a unique linguistic heritage, Estonia recognizes the importance of maintaining its language in the digital age. Karis pointed out that AI systems must be available in Estonian to prevent younger generations from shifting towards English. “Otherwise, young people, they switch to English and we lose a lot, and then people start already thinking in a foreign language,” he said.
This focus on language preservation is central to the AI Leap program, which aims to ensure that AI tools are accessible and relevant to Estonian speakers.
Expanding the Initiative
The AI Leap program will begin in September, initially involving 20,000 high school students and 3,000 teachers. By September 2026, the initiative is expected to expand to vocational schools, reaching an additional 38,000 students and 3,000 teachers. This phased rollout reflects the government’s commitment to integrating AI into the education system gradually and thoughtfully.
AI and National Security
President Karis also highlighted the growing role of AI in national security. Drawing parallels to Estonia’s experience with cyberattacks in 2007, he noted that AI could become a critical tool in modern warfare. “Hybrid wars are already happening,” he said. “AI can be one of the tools used in these conflicts.”
To prepare for these challenges, Karis stressed the importance of fostering critical thinking skills from an early age. “We have to be aware and to make sure that we develop also critical thinking, and that’s why we start with schools and teachers,” he said.
Embracing the Future
Despite the uncertainties surrounding AI, Karis remains optimistic about its potential. As a former molecular geneticist and developmental biologist, he views AI as an exciting opportunity rather than a threat. “I’m not scared of anything [in AI] to be honest,” he said. “It’s a new technology and being a former scientist, for me, it’s always very interesting to use new technologies and to build something.”
He acknowledged that there are limits to what AI can achieve, but he believes that regulations and guidelines will help maintain control. “There are also worries, and rules and regulations and all these acts will help to keep things under control,” he concluded.
