Is Estonia Turning AI Into a Core Subject?

As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and redefines skills across the globe, Estonia is working to ensure its next generation isn't left behind. Known for its early embrace of digital governance and tech-forward education, Estonia is now rolling out AI Leap 2025—a national initiative designed to bring AI tools and literacy directly into schools.

The program focuses on equipping both students and teachers with the resources and training needed to thrive in a world increasingly shaped by automation and intelligent systems.

What Is AI Leap 2025?

AI Leap 2025 (TI-Hüpe 2025) is a national program launched by Estonia to incorporate AI tools and education into schools. Starting in September 2025, the initiative will provide 20,000 high school students and 3,000 teachers with access to AI-based learning applications. The program is a collaboration between the Estonian government and private sector partners, including OpenAI and Anthropic.

How It Works

• Phase 1 (2025): Implementation in grades 10–11, reaching 20,000 students and 3,000 teachers.

• Phase 2 (2026): Expansion to vocational schools and new 10th-grade students, adding 38,000 students and 2,000 teachers.

The program includes structured teacher training to ensure educators can effectively apply AI tools within their teaching practices. An AI Leap Foundation will oversee the initiative’s governance and facilitate ongoing collaboration between public agencies and private tech partners.

Why It Matters

This initiative builds on Estonia's longstanding investment in digital infrastructure, echoing the success of the 1990s Tiger Leap program that introduced computing to classrooms. With AI poised to influence every sector from healthcare to engineering, early exposure to these tools is not just a tech advantage—it’s a civic necessity. Estonia’s proactive stance offers a blueprint for other countries grappling with how to prepare young people for the coming AI age.