"To code, or not to code, that is the question"

In the era of AI, is coding for kids irrelevant?

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang famously suggested in 2024 that students should “stop learning how to code” and focus instead on prompting AI. Others have echoed similar ideas, claiming that “code is obsolete” and the future lies in mastering AI interfaces.

It’s a flashy argument. But it’s also dangerously simplistic. As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into our lives, this question repeatedly arises: Do kids still need to learn how to code? After all, if AI can generate code, what’s the point of teaching it?

The flip side to this, tech moguls like Bill Gates are stating the opposite, that the number one AI-proof job is for coders - the very architects of AI.

The short answer: coding is more relevant than ever—not despite AI, but because of it.

Why Coding Still Matters

Learning to code isn’t about memorising syntax. It’s about building a mindset: problem-solving, logical reasoning, and creative thinking. These are the very skills AI can’t automate.

When children learn to code, they’re not just writing commands - they’re learning how to break down problems, think systematically, and persist through trial and error. These are the foundations of adaptability - the most important trait in a world where two-thirds of countries introduced computer science into their national curricula in 2024, half of which did so in the last five years.

What the Research Says

Coding skills provide a strong foundation for many crucial abilities. According to a report from the World Economic Forum, more than 60% of jobs now require some understanding of technology and coding. When children learn to code, they develop problem-solving skills that are transferable to various aspects of life. For instance, debugging a simple program requires analysis, logical reasoning, and exploration of different paths, all of which are essential skills in any field.

Coding also contributes to creativity. It allows children to express their thoughts and ideas in a tangible format by building games, apps, or websites. This creative expression can boost their confidence, as they see their work come to life. Furthermore, coding encourages resilience, as children learn that failure is just a step toward success. By learning to debug and troubleshoot their programs, they build perseverance and the ability to tackle challenges head-on.

Coding in the Era of AI

At the AI Convergence Summit 2024, leading voices from fintech, edtech, e-commerce, and public policy came together to discuss how Pakistan can pragmatically adopt AI over the next 24 months. One key message from the panel featuring Code School co-founder Sadaf Rehman was clear:

AI is a tool - but without foundational coding literacy, it becomes a black box. Like not knowing math but trying to use a calculator

While AI can generate code, it still requires human oversight to define the problem, evaluate the output, and make ethical, contextual decisions. Understanding how systems are built is essential to using them responsibly and effectively.

That’s why teaching children to code is not about resisting AI—it’s about enabling them to drive it. With the right foundation, students aren’t just future AI users—they’re future AI builders, innovators, and decision-makers.

So, Is It Too Early to Start?

Not at all. In fact, the earlier, the better! When it comes to introducing children to coding, there are numerous online platforms available. Platforms like ours at Code School typically avoid self-paced apps where students do meaningless drills - we prefer to offer structured, live, online coding classes for ages 6 and up, and have made this affordable in multiple markets by leveraging Pakistani instructors to teach the rest of the world. Kids don’t just learn commands - they build games, learning core concepts with real-time feedback from instructors. Whether they go on to be software engineers, artists, or entrepreneurs, they carry forward a toolkit of resilience, creativity, and logic.

Final Thought

Teaching children to code isn’t about preparing them for one job - it’s about preparing them for any job. In an AI-powered future, coding is not obsolete. It’s the new literacy.

And like all forms of literacy, it’s best learned young.