VIENNA, March 27 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- The Austrian federal government announced on Friday plans to ban social media use for students aged 14 and under, according to the Austrian news agency APA, reported Xinhua.
Beginning in the 2027/28 school year, the reform will offer students increased instruction in media literacy, democracy, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
According to the relevant documents, the Education Ministry and its partners in the education sector have agreed that schools may independently decide whether to teach media literacy as a standalone subject or integrate it into a combined curriculum.
The real-name policy will not be implemented, APA reported. The agency added that the federal government is, however, committed to stricter enforcement of existing user data disclosure by social media platforms in cases of serious offences, as well as to strengthening cooperation between platforms and authorities in prosecuting offenders.
Under the ministry’s plan, computer science instruction will be enhanced with AI education, helping students understand how digital systems work and recognise both their potential and risks.
Meanwhile, the new compulsory subject, “Media and Democracy,” will highlight the value of traditional and social media.
Students will also learn to differentiate between truth and falsehood and to identify anti-democratic and radicalising influences.
-- BERNAMA-XINHUA
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