Intel agreed to initiate pushing for AI, STEM in Israeli schools, Education Ministry announces

The Education Ministry and US tech giant Intel signed an agreement to advance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs and the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in Israel’s education system, the Prime Minister’s Office and Education Ministry announced in a joint statement on Friday. 

The initiative was part of Fostering the Future Together, an international conference established by US First Lady Melania Trump for the wives of world leaders and held in Washington, DC, earlier this year, the statement said.

The deal is set to advance education in STEM studies such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as AI in schools across Israel.

The program will include mentoring programs in which Intel employees support students and educators in the realm of AI and STEM.

“The parties will promote initiatives to integrate artificial intelligence into technological education programs, provide mentors for teachers and students, and expand joint activities in schools and local authorities,” according to the statement.

Four Israelis to be showcased in Intel AI festival

In addition to mentoring, the STARTCUP championship will showcase four winning projects by Israeli students from last year's national competition at Intel’s global Artificial Intelligence Festival.

The festival, according to Intel’s website, showcases “next-generation technologists” and future developers from 35 countries.

The signing organizations said that the binational initiative “seeks to empower children in the digital age and help parents protect their children from online risks,” and focuses on implementing technological tools for education, digital literacy, and online safety.

The signing of the agreement took place in New York on Thursday with Prime Minister’s wife Sara Netanyahu, Education Minister Yoav Kisch, White House representatives, and senior Intel executives present. 

Initiative’s goal is to ensure future opportunities, says Netanyahu

Sara Netanyahu, the leader of the initiative, said she is “proud to lead in Israel this important initiative of US First Lady Melania Trump, whose goal is to ensure that our children have a safe, advanced future filled with opportunities.”

“The important partnership we have established with Intel will enable students and teachers in Israel to gain tools and knowledge from those at the forefront of global technological innovation,” she continued.

“I have dedicated my life to the children of Israel, and I believe they must be among the leaders of the artificial intelligence revolution worldwide. Investing in them today is an investment in Israel’s future.”

Kisch thanked Netanyahu for her leadership, saying the initiative will “open new opportunities for Israeli students to learn about artificial intelligence and technology alongside the very people who develop them. The company’s engineers will mentor students and teachers and help expand STEM education.”

“Together, we will equip Israel’s students with the tools they need to succeed and lead in a world that is changing before our eyes,” he said.