Getting Smart About AI: New Programs Help Students Boost Tech Skills

Advanced | July 12, 2025

✨ Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

The Global Push for AI Literacy

Why AI Skills for Students Matter

Governments, educators, and industry leaders are working to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world. The good news is, there’s a big global push happening to help students do just that. From dedicated AI bootcamps to integrating AI into existing curricula, institutions and organizations worldwide are really focusing on boosting tech literacy among young people and even working professionals. In fact, these efforts aim to boost student AI skills to help prepare the next generation for tomorrow’s workforce.

The Urgency Behind the Push

Why all the fuss? Well, as we’ve seen, Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s fundamentally changing industries and creating new job opportunities while transforming existing ones. Experts are saying that countries need to upskill their workforce rapidly to keep pace. This urgency is driving the launch of numerous programs aimed at giving individuals a competitive edge in this evolving landscape. It’s really a case of striking while the iron is hot.

Initiatives Taking Shape

Global Programs that Boost Student AI Skills

Across the globe, institutions are taking concrete steps to expand AI learning. For instance, in India, organizations like Great Learning have rolled out free Generative AI courses as part of nationwide challenges to accelerate AI readiness among students and early-career professionals. We’re also hearing about local initiatives, like one in Lucknow, where educators created a free crash course in generative AI specifically for young people to make them “future-ready.”

Efforts in the US and Estonia

It’s not just limited to India. In the US, programs like AI4OPT are offering summer camps focused on building AI foundations for high school students and providing training for teachers. Estonia, a country already known for its digital prowess, is implementing an ambitious program called ‘AI Leap 2025’ to give students and teachers access to advanced AI learning applications, aiming to integrate AI tools smartly into the education system.

Role of Companies and Universities

Major tech companies and educational platforms are also getting in on the act. AWS, in collaboration with Udacity, offers a free global program for students focusing on foundational AI skills. IBM’s SkillsBuild provides a wealth of free resources and events for students and learners looking to gain tech and AI competencies. Even professional services firms like EY are launching AI academies for industry talent while also engaging with university students through tech competitions. Universities themselves are hosting dedicated AI days and masterclasses to ensure their students and staff are up to speed.

Vocabulary

Equipped (adjective): Having the necessary items, qualities, or skills for a particular purpose.
- Example: “The course is designed to make sure students are equipped with the latest AI skills.”
Relevant (adjective): Closely connected or appropriate to what is being considered or dealt with.
- Example: “Learning about AI is highly relevant for today’s job market.”
Literacy (noun): The ability to read and write; competence or knowledge in a specified area.
- Example: “Digital literacy, including AI literacy, is crucial for future success.”
Buzzword (noun): A word or phrase, often fashionable, that is used to impress people or is connected with a particular subject and that is thought to be impressive.
- Example: “AI started as a buzzword, but now it’s a fundamental technology.”
Fundamentally (adverb): In a basic and important way.
- Example: “AI is fundamentally changing how businesses operate.”
Upskill (verb): To teach a worker additional skills.
- Example: “Companies need to upskill their employees to keep up with technology.”
Keep pace (phrase): To move, progress, or develop at the same rate as someone or something else.
- Example: “India needs to upskill rapidly to keep pace with global AI demand.”
Initiative (noun): An act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation; a fresh approach to something.
- Example: “The government launched a new initiative to boost tech education.”
Prowess (noun): Skill or expertise in a particular activity or field.
- Example: “Many experts recognize Estonia for its digital prowess.”
Competency (noun): The ability to do something successfully or efficiently.
- Example: “These programs aim to build students’ AI competencies.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What are some of the different types of AI initiatives mentioned in the article?
According to the article, why is there an urgent need for upskilling in AI?
Which countries or regions are highlighted for their efforts in boosting AI skills among students?
How are universities and professional organizations contributing to AI education?
What is the main goal behind launching these AI masterclasses and programs?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

How do you think learning AI skills will impact future job opportunities?
Have you participated in any AI or tech-related courses or programs? What was your experience?
What are the potential challenges in implementing large-scale AI training programs for students?
How might AI education differ in different parts of the world?
Besides technical skills, what ethical considerations do you think are important when teaching students about AI?

Related Idiom

“Get ahead of the curve”

Meaning: To be in the forefront of change or development; to be aware of and be ready for future developments.
Example: Participating in an AI masterclass can help you “get ahead of the curve”.

📢 Want more tips like this? 👉 Sign up for the All About English Mastery Newsletter! Click here to join us!

Join the English Mastery Club — your place to practice, grow, and connect with others mastering English just like you!

Follow our YouTube Channel @All_About_English for more great insights and tips.

This article was inspired by: The Times of India, July 9, 2025