EU plans to deliver 'AI literacy' certificates to students

The European Union intends to introduce an AI literacy certificate for schoolchildren as a means of tackling the effects of rapidly advancing technology on education. According to European Commission vice president Roxana Minzatu, the certificate aims to equip young pupils with the knowledge and skills necessary to comprehend how AI operates, evaluate its credibility, detect manipulation attempts, and recognize when to disengage from AI systems.

Brussels anticipates launching this new certificate for 15-year-old students during the 2027-2028 academic year. The initiative arises as educators and learners worldwide grapple with the impact of AI in educational settings. In recent PISA 2025 statistics, a concerning decline in fundamental skills among EU students has been observed, with approximately one in three 15-year-olds underperforming in literacy and mathematics.

Despite not having direct control over member states' educational policies, the EU is actively supporting research into the safe integration of AI in children's education. The commission believes that enhancing AI literacy among youth and teachers, understanding its functionality, and identifying potential risks will empower them to learn more effectively.

Simultaneously, Brussels is advocating for legislation to restrict teenagers' access to social media platforms, emphasizing that AI can significantly enhance educational processes, such as personalized learning, without relying on addictive algorithms found in these platforms.