Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, announced that coding and artificial intelligence (AI) will be introduced as an elective subject for students in the 2025/2026 academic years’ school curriculum.
“Starting next semester, coding and artificial intelligence will be offered as elective courses in schools, with support from the Minister of Communication and Informatics,” said Minister Abdul Mu’ti.
The move is part of the Ministry’s broader effort to cultivate a generation well-versed in technology and capable of using it for positive and constructive purposes.
Mu’ti acknowledged that AI offers exciting new ways to deliver education, providing faster access to information compared to traditional textbook learning.
“The advantage of AI is that it accelerates educational services and allows students to access information more efficiently than by reading books,” Mu’ti said.
Therefore, to support the rollout of AI-based learning programs, the Ministry has partnered with major technology companies, including Google.
The courses are set to be introduced at upper elementary levels (grades 4 to 6) and in middle schools. However, not all schools will offer the subjects right away. Mu’ti said only schools that are considered ready such as those with strong internet access and adequate digital learning tools will implement the new curriculum.
However, he emphasized that the rise of AI should not come at the expense of traditional literacy. He urged for a balanced approach that promotes both digital fluency and a continued commitment to reading and numeracy.
“This program needs to be synchronized with efforts to encourage students to read, especially textbooks whether printed or digital, and to engage with contextual learning materials,” said Mu’ti.
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Despite AI’s benefits, Mu’ti warned of two key challenges the technology presents in classrooms:
Accuracy of Information
AI-generated content is not always accurate. He stressed that its use must be guided by teachers who understand the curriculum. “Teachers must lead the learning process, as they are the ones who truly grasp the subject matter,” he said.
Decline in Reading Interest
Another concern is that reliance on AI tools could further weaken students’ reading habits. Mu’ti, a professor at Jakarta’s State Islamic University (UIN), said the use of AI and digital devices must be balanced with initiatives to sustain students’ interest in reading. “We must continue encouraging students to engage in learning activities, rather than depending entirely on devices and AI,” Mu’ti added.
The Minister emphasized that introducing coding and AI marks a strategic step toward equipping Indonesian students with vital technological skills while also strengthening their literacy development.
As of now, the Ministry has finalized the academic framework and learning objectives for the coding-AI curriculum and is awaiting the issuance of a ministerial regulation to formalize its inclusion in schools.
(Raidi/Agung)
