Driving AI awareness: Science Truck receives grant to inspire next generations

News
The province of Groningen is contributing €10,000 to the Your Technology of Tomorrow educational programme, one of two educational initiatives offered through the Science Truck of the University of Groningen. This truck acts as a mobile laboratory and classroom and visits around 100 secondary schools every year. It introduces students aged 10 to 15 to science and technology in a playful and accessible way.

Your Technology of Tomorrow is an initiative of the ELSA AI Lab North Netherlands (ELSA-NN), a consortium of research institutions, social partners, companies, patients and citizens working together to promote the responsible development and implementation of AI in healthcare. As spokesperson of the consortium, the UMCG coordinates the programme in collaboration with Science LinX, the Jantina Tammes School, the AI Hub Noord-Nederland, the Municipality of Groningen and the Hanzehogeschool.

By offering the programme in the Science Truck, young people are introduced to artificial intelligence (AI) in an interactive and engaging way, making complex technology understandable and accessible. Thanks in part to the newly awarded grant from the province of Groningen, the truck can continue to offer this innovative educational experience focused on AI.

In addition to the existing programme on energy, the Science Truck now includes the Your Technology of Tomorrow programme. This new module teaches students about what AI is, how it works and how to assess its opportunities and risks. It also encourages students to think about their own role in shaping the future of AI.

Partners

Project partners include the UMCG, the University of Groningen, the Municipality of Groningen, the Hanzehogeschool and the AI Hub Noord-Nederland.

AI Hub Northern Netherlands

Besides education, AI is expected to play an increasing role in business. Last month, the province of Groningen also awarded a grant to the AI Hub Noord-Nederland project. This hub helps companies in the northern region explore the possibilities of AI and learn how to apply it reliably and effectively. The Science Truck is also receiving support from this hub.