China will incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into teacher qualification exams and certification, as part of a broader push to integrate AI across its education system, the Ministry of Education said at a press conference on Friday.

According to an official action plan, AI will be used throughout the teaching process, from pre-class preparation to in-class instruction and post-class evaluation, to improve efficiency and reduce teachers' workload. Smart teaching systems will assist with assignment management, including automated grading, answering student queries and providing tutoring. AI tools will also analyze classroom teaching behavior to help educators enhance instructional quality.

The plan also calls for accelerating AI education among primary and secondary school students by ensuring sufficient, well-designed courses. AI will be fully incorporated into local curricula, with guidelines to define learning objectives, content and class hours at different education levels. Schools are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary AI teaching and integrate it into after-school programs and research-based learning activities.

To cultivate high-level talent for the intelligent era, universities will be required to offer AI as a general foundational course. Tailored teaching materials will be developed for different disciplines to ensure all students acquire basic AI knowledge. Higher education institutions will also be guided to optimize traditional programs, introduce interdisciplinary AI courses and expand cross-discipline training to nurture versatile talent.

In line with industrial transformation, universities will adjust academic programs and establish new disciplines aligned with emerging technologies, industries and business models. 

The plan further outlines the use of AI to support student learning, education governance and scientific research, while strengthening the infrastructure and ecosystem for "AI Plus education." By 2030, China aims to build a comprehensive AI education system that spans all stages of schooling and extends to society at large.