Taipei’s mayor, Chiang Wan-an, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to revolutionize education in the city with a substantial investment in artificial intelligence (AI) over the next four years. The initiative, valued at NT$9.2 billion (US$288 million), aims to integrate advanced technology into the educational environment, equipping students with the skills necessary for an AI-centric future.
Central to this initiative is the installation of smart screens in all classrooms, alongside the enhancement of digital learning platforms through AI-driven assistants. The initiative also includes the development of improved AI teaching tools and the establishment of a specialized AI Education Center at Beitou Shilin Technology Park. This center will play a crucial role in orchestrating teacher training programs, developing curricula, and fostering collaborations between educational institutions and industry stakeholders.
In addition to these technological upgrades, Taipei’s classrooms will see an increased presence of robotics, drones, and AI-powered devices. The city plans to offer students more hands-on opportunities to engage with edge computing systems that utilize graphics processing units (GPUs), thereby broadening their practical understanding of cutting-edge technologies.
The officials behind the initiative emphasize that it is not solely about imparting AI skills. There is a strong focus on promoting responsible technology usage, enhancing digital literacy, and ensuring data privacy. The revamped learning platform is designed to facilitate independent learning among students while alleviating teachers from some of their administrative duties, such as exam grading.