Jackson State University is taking steps to provide local high school students with the opportunity to learn about artificial intelligence. The university is teaming up with the Mark Cuban Foundation to offer a free AI boot camp to students in grades 9-12 from Jackson Public Schools. This program aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a world that is increasingly driven by technology.
According to The Clarion Ledger, the boot camp will take place over three Saturdays in the fall and will cover various aspects of generative AI, as well as its applications in different industries. Jackson State's College of Business will be hosting the program and will provide students with all the necessary resources, including transportation and meals, at no cost. Interested students can apply until the end of September.
Mark Cuban, a successful entrepreneur and the founder of the Mark Cuban Foundation, believes that every student should have the opportunity to learn about AI, regardless of their financial situation. "It's more important than ever to prepare our students for the future when they apply for schools or jobs," he stated. "This boot camp will give students from all backgrounds the chance to explore this fascinating field." During the boot camp, students will have the opportunity to discover real-world applications of AI in various fields, such as healthcare, business, computer science, sports, and arts and entertainment.
They will also work on a capstone project that will allow them to apply the skills they have learned throughout the program. For Jackson State, this partnership represents another opportunity to connect emerging technology with students in the local community. Alisa Mosely, the university's senior director for AI initiatives, believes that this program will open doors for young people and potentially change their lives.
"We want to give them the chance to explore technology and innovation in ways that can shape their future," she said. JSU President Denise Jones Gregory also emphasized the importance of providing equal access to emerging technology. "At Jackson State University, we believe that access to emerging technology should not be limited by zip code or financial circumstances," she stated.
This initiative aims to bring AI education directly to Jackson students, as more and more schools and employers incorporate this technology into their curriculum and work environment. This partnership between Jackson State University and the Mark Cuban Foundation is just one example of the university's commitment to educational equity and providing opportunities for students to explore emerging technology. As JSU continues to connect with the community and promote innovation, it hopes to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders in the field of AI.