First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday hosted a meaningful meeting of the White House Task Force on AI Education, speaking frankly about the beautiful possibilities of AI, while tempering that futuristic vision with a cautionary warning of responsibility and cultivation.
“We are leading in a moment of wonder, and it is our responsibility to prepare children in America,” Mrs. Trump said.
She continued, “Cars now steer themselves through our cities. Robots hold steady hands in the operating room. And drones are redefining the future of war…Every one of these advancements is powered by AI. The robots are here. Our future is no longer science fiction.”
The First Lady predicted that AI would soon underpin every business sector of America, including education, life sciences, and design.
She described AI as having the potential to become known “as the greatest engine of progress in the history of the United States – but as leaders and parents we must manage AI’s growth responsibly.”
Mrs. Trump added, “During this primitive stage, it is our duty to treat AI as we would our own children – empowering, but with watchful guidance.”
She also discussed the launch of the AI Presidential Challenge – which was announced in August. The challenge empowers educators and students across the nation to engage in innovative creation by utilizing AI in new and exciting ways.
As reported by RSBN, participating students will help create AI-based projects that solve community challenges and compete against other students nationwide in tiered championships. Educators have also been challenged to create educational tools that integrate AI in the classroom.
The First Lady described this program on Thursday as the “first major step” to equip and empower parents and educators to interact with AI in a positive way.
“You are investing in our youth,” she said, and “America’s next era of leaders.”
The First Lady was joined by Google CEO Sundar Pichai, along with task force members like Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Crypto Czar David Sacks.
