In a significant boost to diversity in the tech sector and a milestone for educational innovation, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) will establish an artificial intelligence research hub, thanks to a $1 million grant from Google.org. NCCU, a pillar in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) community, is set to host the first AI institute of its kind on its Durham campus. According to a QCity Metro report, this endowment is part of a $2 million initiative by the tech giant to endorse and support AI-related fields in North Carolina.

"Today, our purpose is clear to innovate, inspire and shape the next generation of leaders in artificial intelligence," NCCU Chancellor Karrie Dixon was quoted as she announced the institute, which aims to indeed very much become the leading AI hub within the HBCU network, as mentioned on CBS 17. As covered by ABC11, this partnership is expected to equip students with the necessary tools and knowledge to take the lead in AI development, while fostering technologies that will benefit society at large.

The initiative underscores Google's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the ever-expanding AI landscape. Melonie Parker, Google's Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, emphasized the necessity of developing AI with equity at its core, stating, "This institute will help students understand the competencies that are required, do deep research, work back with the local community and beyond, and ensure we are navigating this unprecedented scale responsibly and boldly with the competencies required," in a statement publicized by CBS 17.

The grant will not only benefit NCCU but is expected to have a ripple effect across North Carolina, with Google's largesse extending to various institutions in addition to NCCU, as "We are now leaders in this space," stated Rep. Zack Hawkins, as reported by CBS 17. Other recipients include, for instance, the NCCU AI Tutors Program and the NC Business Committee for Education, which were awarded $45,000 and $385,000 respectively, according to details obtained from QCity Metro. This funding aims to seamlessly bridge the gap between underrepresented communities and the critical skills required to thrive in AI and cybersecurity.

Furthermore, the institute is projected to support up to 200 students in its first two years, galvanizing AI workforce development and innovation within the HBCU ecosystem.