Estonia boosts educational AI with its own ChatGPT in schools Estonia, recognized for its educational excellence and a 6.5% GDP investment in the sector, leads PISA results in Europe and ranks among the top three in the world. This success is based on school autonomy, academic rigor, and access to adequate resources. Education Minister Kristina Kallas presented the new strategy for integrating artificial intelligence in classrooms at the European Pulse Forum 2026 in Barcelona. Kallas highlighted two global challenges: the decline in reading comprehension and the impact of AI on learning. “The level of knowledge in Europe has dropped, and AI could exacerbate this trend,” she warned. To address this challenge, Estonia created an AI council with experts in neuroscience, cognitive sciences, and technology companies. The result was a new pedagogical approach and the development, alongside OpenAI, of a ChatGPT adapted to the Estonian educational context. This tool, implemented in high schools since February, does not provide direct answers but encourages critical thinking through questions and dialogue. Teachers received specific training and autonomy to decide how to integrate it into their classes. The first results will be evaluated in June. Initially hesitant, teachers have embraced the innovation enthusiastically. Kallas emphasizes that traditional teaching no longer meets the needs of today’s students, making it essential to transform both teacher training and learning methods. Teacher autonomy is key in Estonia: teachers and principals make decisions about school management, immigrant integration, technology use, and curriculum adaptation. The government provides resources and demands results, intervening only when necessary. The Estonian system also stands out for its flexibility in classroom management and the inclusion of auxiliary teachers and specialists (psychologists, pedagogues, speech therapists) to address diversity. Class sizes typically have 18 students, although the maximum allowed is 24. Reading remains a priority: screens are not used in the early years, and weekly time is dedicated to reading printed materials. The goal is to strengthen reading comprehension and mathematical and scientific skills before introducing digital technologies. Teacher salaries start at a minimum of 1,970 euros, with averages of 2,300 euros, and can increase based on the difficulty of the school or area. Social respect for teachers is high, reinforced by their autonomy and professionalism. The Estonian curriculum is demanding and based on maintaining high expectations for all students, avoiding segregation by levels. Inclusion is the norm, except in cases of severe disabilities. Schooling begins at age 7, ensuring that children are cognitively and emotionally prepared. Kallas argues that pressuring children too early can be counterproductive, while starting at the appropriate age allows for rapid and deep learning. With this strategy, Estonia aims to maintain its educational leadership and adapt to the challenges of the digital age, focusing on responsible innovation and the holistic development of its students.