Norway is rolling out broad restrictions on generative AI in schools, with a near-total ban for primary-age pupils. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre says the government is acting to protect foundational learning—reading, writing and mathematics—amid concerns that AI tools could cause children to skip important steps in their education. The decision comes as Norway reports a general decline in education test scores. In 2024, the government also banned smartphones from schools and expanded teachers’ authority to manage classroom discipline.
Under the new rules, students aged 6 to 13 (covering first through seventh grade) should generally not use AI tools. For students aged 14 to 16 in lower secondary school, AI use is allowed only cautiously and under teacher supervision. For students aged 17 to 19 in upper secondary education, the policy shifts to learning how to use AI appropriately so students are prepared for further education and work.
The government also says it plans to propose legislation to increase the availability of physical books in classrooms, reversing a trend toward greater reliance on digital tablets.
