Alcorn State University Awarded $1.5M Grant to Boost AI Learning in Mississippi
Alcorn State University, along with its Natchez-based School of Nursing, is set to receive $1.5 million as part of a larger $9 million funding initiative aimed at advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning education across Mississippi. This funding is a key component of the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program (MAI-TAP), recently announced by Governor Tate Reeves.
MAI-TAP supports the expansion of Amazon Web Services in Mississippi and focuses on developing technical skills critical to the state's future workforce and economic growth. According to Governor Reeves, the investment ensures that Mississippians gain the necessary competencies to succeed in a technology-driven economy.
Focus Areas for Alcorn State University
The $1.15 million allocated to Alcorn State will concentrate on digital literacy and AI fundamentals training for residents in southwest Mississippi. Additionally, funds will expand telehealth services through the School of Nursing, improving healthcare accessibility in underserved rural areas.
Mississippi’s AI and Machine Learning Workforce Development Strategy
The state's approach is built around five key pillars:
- Infrastructure: Building human capital to support AI and machine learning foundational roles.
- Literacy: Promoting basic AI knowledge across Mississippi’s population.
- Education & Industry Alignment: Linking AI education to real-world applications.
- Upskilling: Enhancing abilities for innovation and product development.
- Research Infrastructure: Supporting AI/ML research and technological advancements.
Collaboration and Oversight
The AI Workforce Readiness Council, facilitated by the State Workforce Investment Board and AccelerateMS, will oversee this initiative. Chaired by Dr. Kollin Napier of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network, the council includes representatives from each grant recipient institution, ensuring ongoing collaboration and alignment.
Other Mississippi Institutions Receiving Grants
- Belhaven University: $390K to hire an AI program chair and integrate AI into its online MBA for working professionals.
- Jackson State University: $1.3 million to launch an Executive On Roster (XOR) program for expert engagement and AI consulting partnerships with Millsaps College.
- Millsaps College: $1 million to establish an endowed AI chair and expand AI consulting services for small businesses.
- Mississippi College: $723K to create AI-related certificates and microcredentials in their School of Law.
- Mississippi State University: $2.2 million to fund AI workforce and research initiatives, including new faculty and a graduate certificate in Data Center Construction Management.
- University of Southern Mississippi: $1.24 million to open a Maritime AI Innovation Lab and launch a master’s program in Robotics and Intelligent Systems.
- Tougaloo College: $1.08 million to hire AI faculty and establish an endowment for AI education across programs.
Additional Contributions
Several institutions, including Co-Lin Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Hinds Community College, and the University of Mississippi, are actively participating in MAI-TAP through existing funding and partnerships, despite not receiving direct grants in this round.
Governor Reeves emphasized that this initiative is not only about creating jobs but opening new opportunities for Mississippi’s workforce in AI and machine learning. This targeted investment is a significant move to position the state as a leader in technology education and application.
For professionals interested in expanding their AI skills in line with these developments, resources such as Complete AI Training's latest courses offer practical learning paths to stay current in AI and machine learning.
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