Hong Kong launches AI privacy sandbox for schools
The personal data AI sandbox gives selected schools support on privacy compliance and responsible AI adoption.
Hong Kong’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and the Digital Policy Office have launched an AI privacy sandbox to support responsible AI adoption in schools.
The Safeguarding Personal Data AI Sandbox will provide a collaborative platform for schools exploring AI solutions while managing the risks to personal data protection.
The first phase will run for six months and select 15 school applicants. It is open to publicly funded primary and secondary schools, with applications accepted until 30 October 2026.
Selected schools will receive guidance from the Privacy Commissioner’s office on compliance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
They will also receive support from the Digital Policy Office on Hong Kong’s Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline.
Cyberport, Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Productivity Council will provide technical advice.
A briefing session for interested schools is scheduled for 28 August 2026.
Why does it matter?
Schools are increasingly exploring AI tools, but their use of student data creates specific privacy, safety and governance risks. Hong Kong’s sandbox offers a practical way to test AI adoption in education while giving schools regulatory and technical support. The initiative also shows how governments can move beyond broad AI principles by creating sector-specific support mechanisms for institutions that may lack in-house expertise.
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