Telecom operators and vendors are moving AI education from conference panels into classrooms. The goal is clear. Young people need practical skills before AI reshapes most jobs.
This shift also gives telecoms a wider social role. Networks already carry digital life. Now, leading companies want to help explain the tools running across those networks.
Nokia has joined Elisa and Foundation PS on a new Finnish school programme. It will teach pupils how AI works. It will also explain what AI can and cannot do.
The programme uses an AI learning robot called Bella. Pupils will also use robotics, digital tools, and guided classroom tasks. Teachers will lead the sessions under Finnish education guidelines.
The scheme launches in September 2026 across four centres in Finland. Partners include JA’s Yrityskylä and IchiZero Oy. Nokia expects it to reach about 19,000 sixth-grade pupils in year one.
Nokia Chief Legal and Administrative Officer, Esa Niinimäki, said: “Co-creation across technology, education and research is essential to ensure that AI is used safely and for the benefit of society.
“This program exemplifies how AI can be introduced in schools in a structured and responsible way and demonstrates of Nokia’s approach to bridging the digital divide together with our customers and other partners, in this instance through digital skill building”
This approach could make AI less abstract for young learners. It may also reduce fear around automation. However, schools must avoid treating AI as a magic answer. Pupils still need critical thinking, privacy awareness, and strong basic skills.
Meanwhile, BT Group targets slightly older students through its Work Ready programme. The scheme serves young people aged 11 to 14. It introduces AI while discussing both opportunities and risks.
BT also works with educators on practical and human skills. That matters for telecom and IT careers. Future engineers will need technical knowledge. They will also need communication, teamwork, and judgement.
At university level, Ericsson has partnered with UNIE University in Spain. The collaboration supports a new MSc in AI and Deep Learning. The course is due to start in October 2026.
Ericsson will act as an industry partner. Students should see how AI supports real mobile networks. This link between theory and deployment could make graduates more job-ready.
Juan Olivera, President of Ericsson Spain, said: “AI is not just a technology trend. It is the defining force of our industry’s future. At Ericsson, we are already embedding AI into the critical processes and systems of mobile networks, while simultaneously building the next generation of networks to carry massive AI traffic at scale.
“Partnerships like this one with UNIE Universidad are essential to ensuring the talent ecosystem keeps pace with that ambition”.
For telecoms, these programmes serve several purposes. They build future talent pipelines. They also show public responsibility during rapid technological change.
Yet success will depend on execution. Programmes need trained teachers, updated content, and clear ethical safeguards. If done well, telecoms can help the next generation use AI with confidence, not confusion.
