WASHINGTON — Melania Trump, the wife of President Donald Trump, has taken on a new role as the spokesperson for a White House-led initiative, the "AI Challenge," aimed at students and educators across the United States. The program, announced on August 26, is a key component of the Trump administration’s broader push to secure American leadership in artificial intelligence.

In a video message posted on the challenge's website (Ai.gov), Mrs. Trump stated, "The AI Challenge will be a first step in giving the next generation a foundational understanding of this critical new technology." She shared her personal experience using AI to create an audiobook, highlighting both the potential and the inherent risks of the technology.

"In just a few years, artificial intelligence will be a core engine driving every sector of our industry," Mrs. Trump emphasized. "It's critical that the United States leads the world."

The AI Challenge encourages participants to use AI-based solutions to solve real-world problems within their communities. The competition is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as their teachers, offering a broad educational framework for AI literacy. The initiative is structured to foster innovation and critical thinking from a young age, ensuring that a diverse group of students gain exposure to AI concepts.

President Trump praised his wife's dedication during a cabinet meeting, noting, "Melania has worked so hard on this. When Melania puts her mind to something, nobody can do it better."

The AI Challenge is part of a larger strategy to maintain America's technological edge. Administration officials have stressed the importance of public-private partnerships and educational initiatives to build a robust AI workforce. The program is set to include a series of workshops, mentorship opportunities, and a final showcase where winning projects will be presented. The initiative’s goal is not only to identify and nurture young talent but also to create a national dialogue about the ethical considerations and societal impact of AI.

The prize for winning teams includes scholarships, grants, and opportunities to meet with top AI researchers and industry leaders. The White House hopes that by engaging students directly, the initiative will spark a new wave of American innovation and prepare the future workforce for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.