Hungarian Education Minister Judit Lannert warns of AI dangers and calls for education reform

Education Minister Judit Lannert said that artificial intelligence can overwhelm students who lack strong text‑understanding and logical reasoning, describing AI as a threat that "will eat us up" if not properly managed. She recommended that AI use be delayed until ages 12‑14, after which it can be introduced experimentally in school curricula, while younger children should focus on offline activities such as movement, social interaction and critical thinking.

Lannert emphasized that AI should not be taught as a separate subject; instead it can be integrated into any lesson once teachers and parents are prepared. She also addressed the future of Hungary’s high‑school graduation exam (érettségi), insisting it should be retained as a national tradition but reformed to assess 21st‑century competencies rather than merely factual recall. The minister highlighted her own research background and earlier work as a kindergarten teacher, arguing that her non‑pedagogical career offers a broader perspective on education policy.

Overall, Lannert called for a bottom‑up cultural shift in schools, stronger focus on critical thinking, debate and creativity, and long‑term investment in human capital to avoid falling into a “medium‑development trap.”