The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) education in Cyprus schools is set to begin this September, coinciding with the postponement of the AI Act legislation to 2028. This significant update was communicated by the Law Office of the Republic during a session of the House Human Rights Committee, as reported by committee chair Christos Christofides.
Legislation Timeline Adjusted
The AI Act was initially slated for implementation on August 2, 2026, but this date has now been extended to August 2, 2028. Christofides stated that the delay was primarily due to the complexities surrounding the provisions for high-risk AI systems. The new timeline establishes December 2, 2027, for standalone high-risk AI systems, while those embedded in products will follow suit on the later date.
Regulatory Framework for AI Safety
The Law Office noted that, despite the direct applicability of EU regulations, it remains essential to introduce national implementing laws to ensure the provisions are effectively executed. This involves synchronising with decisions and guidelines from the European Union to create a cohesive regulatory framework.
The AI Act aims to safeguard the safety, ethical standards, and reliability of AI systems, imposing obligations on providers and developers while addressing associated risks such as bias and accountability gaps. The regulation is intended to facilitate innovation while promoting the responsible adoption of AI technologies.
Preparations for Digital Human Rights
In addressing the need for legislative changes to secure digital human rights by 2028, Diamantis Zafeiriadis, Head of the Digital Security Authority, indicated that a strategic plan is still in the works. Currently, the focus is on preparing a techno-economic study to assess the resources necessary for the implementation of the regulation.
Zafeiriadis explained that this study will also include a mapping of digital rights and the extent of involvement from various stakeholders. He emphasised the importance of informing the market and developing cooperation with competent national and EU authorities to ensure effective regulation oversight.
Advancements in Legislative Process
Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nikodimos Damianou, confirmed that efforts to advance the legislative framework are underway. A consultant has been engaged to evaluate the current laws, and a draft for the national implementing law has already been circulated for review. Damianou expressed optimism about completing this process by year-end, ensuring that the draft can pass through the Law Office and subsequently to the House.
Formation of an Ad Hoc Working Group
As discussions in the Human Rights Committee draw to a close, there are plans to establish an informal ad hoc working group tasked with drafting a Declaration of Digital Human Rights. Christofides noted that this draft is expected to be presented to the Committee in the autumn, facilitating a comprehensive dialogue that includes all relevant parties.
He also mentioned that an initial list of ten laws requiring amendments has been prepared, highlighting the need for potential changes to specific legislation to align with the evolving digital landscape.
Contributions to European Legislation
A representative from the Law Office highlighted a recent national initiative that could influence European legislation. Cyprus has proposed adding the offence of sexual abuse facilitated by AI systems to the EU directive on combating child exploitation, showcasing the nation’s proactive approach to contributing to broader regulatory frameworks.
AI Curriculum Launch in Schools
Accompanying these legislative developments, the Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Athina Michaelidou, announced that a new course focused on artificial intelligence will be introduced in Cypriot primary and secondary schools starting in September. The Ministry aims to cultivate digital skills from an early age through enhanced curricula and training programmes.
Michaelidou elaborated on the Ministry’s efforts to improve technological infrastructure in schools, including the creation of new IT labs and the IDEA project for digital school administration. European funds are being utilised to equip schools with the necessary technology, ensuring that students are prepared for the digital future.
Expertise and Resources for AI Education
To bolster the new curriculum, the Ministry is collaborating with experts from across Europe. A comprehensive text on artificial intelligence has already been developed for use in classrooms, reflecting an investment in both educational content and teacher training.
The introduction of AI education signifies a critical step for Cyprus in aligning its educational system with the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, ensuring that students are not only consumers of technology but also informed participants in the digital economy.
