Norway to Impose Near-Total Generative AI Ban in Primary Schools From 2026

Norway’s government believes that children aged 6 to 13 who become reliant on generative AI too early may bypass critical stages of learning, including reading, writing, arithmetic and independent thinking. The new policy will be incorporated into national curriculum standards, using age-based restrictions to reinforce traditional teaching. It will also support a return to printed textbooks to reduce disruption from digital tools in classrooms.

Norway’s prime minister announced that generative AI tools would, in principle, be almost entirely banned in primary schools from the start of the new school year in August 2026. The restrictions will cover children aged 6 to 13 and vary by age group, with only a small number of exceptions for legitimate teaching needs. The policy is intended to prevent students from using AI to obtain answers directly and to safeguard the development of foundational skills.