Georgia State University (GSU) has received $6 million in funding from Google to establish a new AI Innovation Lab.
Through the partnership, the university will offer an after-school program that recruits students from metro Atlanta public high schools to participate in daily instruction on AI and machine learning.
The curriculum will focus on a variety of subjects such as literacy, problem-solving, design-thinking and mentorship.
According to Georgia State, the lab initiative was designed to “expand access to computer science and artificial intelligence (AI) education for more students in the local community,” with the goal of increasing college readiness, improving career outcomes and bolstering Georgia’s AI and tech workforce.
“This collaboration with Google reflects what Georgia State does best — using innovation to expand opportunity,” said Georgia State University President M. Brian Blake. “Together, we’re preparing the next generation of thinkers and leaders who will shape Georgia’s — and our nation’s — future in the digital economy.”
Georgia State undergraduate and graduate students will serve as instructors and mentors for the labs, giving them an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in computer science education and instructional design, said GSU.
Additionally, Google volunteers will be in-attendance at the labs to provide learning support.
“We are committed to helping students and educators across the state access essential AI and digital skills training to succeed in the workforce and advance their economic opportunities,” said Google Cloud Chief Product Supply Officer Monique Picou. “We are proud to collaborate with Georgia State University to ensure the opportunities created by technology are available to everyone in the state.”
GSU says that the AI Innovation Lab builds upon the educational institution’s “reputation for innovation and student success,” with the university ranking among the country’s top innovative public universities for 11 consecutive years, according to U.S. News & World Report.