TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan has spent eight years rolling out a digital learning project that has helped more than 20,000 students pick up artificial intelligence skills.

CNA reported Thursday that the project has built 216 new courses that mix school subjects with new tech. Officials also said they want students to use tech to solve real problems and think in creative ways.

The ministry on Thursday showcased project results from 40 schools at EdTech Taiwan. Teachers who led standout courses also received awards at the event.

One school in Hsinchu County taught students to come up with low-carbon ideas using IoT tools. Their projects included a tiny solar-powered smart house and a “glass traffic light” that sorts recycling.

Another school in Miaoli County built an AI game that helps people spot plant diseases and avoid spraying too much pesticide. Students also made a “strawberry footprint map” to help visitors plan greener travel routes.

National Cheng Kung University Professor Yang Ya-ting (楊雅婷) said the project pushes students to explore on their own and use tech to tackle global sustainability issues. Yang said the project has boosted students’ teamwork and higher-level thinking skills.