The 2024 Student Challenge with Microsoft
WHO
Microsoft
WHEN
2024
WHERE
Singapore
WHAT
Education, Public Awareness, Implementation
OBJECTIVE
In collaboration with Microsoft, Cyberlite launched the "Unlocking Generative AI: The 2024 Student Challenge" to introduce secondary school students in Singapore to the potentials and responsibilities associated with generative AI. The initiative aimed to educate students on the safe and ethical use of AI technologies, fostering a generation of informed and responsible digital citizens.

IMPLEMENTATION
Educational Toolkit Deployment:
The challenge utilised the "Classroom Toolkit: Unlocking Generative AI Safely and Responsibly," developed by Cyberlite and Microsoft. This resource provided educators and students with comprehensive materials to understand generative AI through engaging narratives and practical applications.
Teacher Webinar:
The initiative commenced with an informative webinar for teachers, outlining the educational tools and learning objectives of the toolkit. This session equipped educators with the necessary knowledge to effectively teach AI concepts in their classrooms. Watch the webinar on YouTube here.
Student Workshops:
Interactive workshops were conducted in six secondary schools, reaching over 750 students and educators. These sessions provided hands-on experience with generative AI tools, enabling students to navigate the complexities of AI application safely and responsibly.
Student Challenge:
Students were tasked with creating unique characters that integrate AI into their professional and personal lives, mirroring the depth and narrative provided by the toolkit's characters, Gina and Alex. Submissions required students to demonstrate creativity and an understanding of how AI could ethically and effectively shape future professions.
Prize Presentation Ceremony:
The challenge culminated in a prize presentation ceremony at Microsoft's Singapore office, attended by stakeholders and student finalists, including representatives from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Ministry of Education (MOE), and the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI). Keynote addresses were delivered by Courtney Gregoire, Microsoft's Chief Digital Safety Officer, and Doreen Tan, IMDA's Assistant Chief Executive. Three winners were announced, each receiving a Microsoft Surface Book 3 for their outstanding submissions.

IMPACT
The "Unlocking Generative AI: The 2024 Student Challenge" successfully introduced generative AI concepts to secondary students in Singapore, fostering a deeper understanding of AI's potential and ethical considerations. The initiative engaged over 750 students and educators through workshops and reached a broader audience through the prize presentation ceremony. The collaboration with Microsoft and support from educational authorities underscored the importance of digital literacy and responsible AI use among young learners.
