Artificial Intelligence is profoundly transforming the way we live, work, and learn. According to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs report 2025, AI is expected to create over 97 million new jobs globally by 2025, highlighting the growing need to develop new skills in this field. However, many educational systems are still not fully equipped to integrate these technologies into their curriculum, creating a skills gap that could disadvantage future generations.
To bridge this gap, AI–ENTR4YOUTH was launched as part of a European partnership in collaboration with Erasmus+, bringing together schools from different countries to promote AI education. In Italy, the project has already engaged over 100 students and more than 10 teachers in an innovative educational journey. The project aims to introduce AI-related skills directly into schools, providing students with practical tools to understand and apply this technology.
AI–ENTR4YOUTH is an intensive 52-hour program in which students work on developing fully functional AI-based prototypes. This initiative goes beyond theory, emphasizing a hands-on, experimental approach, enabling students to acquire skills directly applicable in the workforce.
A key strength of the programme has been the active collaboration with teachers at ITST Enrico Fermi in Francavilla Fontana, who played a fundamental role in shaping the curriculum based on student feedback and school needs. This co-creation process has helped to refine the content, making it even more effective and relevant for the educational context.
A crucial factor in AI–ENTR4YOUTH’s success has been the support of Intel and specifically the AI expert, Walter Riviera, who provided additional training sessions for teachers. These sessions had a significant impact, allowing educators to deepen their understanding of AI and gain practical tools to effectively teach this subject to students.
By integrating these sessions, the programme became even more structured, equipping schools with concrete resources to implement AI in their curriculum and bridge the gap between technological innovation and education.
Teacher Giorgia Martina said “One of the most impactful aspects of the programme was the hands-on approach, allowing students to witness AI mechanisms in action. From prototype development to image recognition, they had the opportunity to explore the potential of this technology firsthand. Even though initially there was uncertainty about their skills, they have been fully engaged , finding their role within the project—whether in technical development, presenting the idea, or defining the business model.“
Teacher Catiuscia Melle said about the Programme’s Value for Schools and Teacher Training:“AI–ENTR4YOUTH has been a turning point for our institute. Not only did it actively engage students, but it also encouraged our Computer Science Department to deepen and better structure AI education. This experience led us to participate in European projects and collaborate with the University of Salento, proving how initiatives like this can make a real difference in both student learning and teacher training.“
Artificial Intelligence is set to become an essential skill in the workforce and research fields. AI–ENTR4YOUTH stands as an innovative model that not only prepares young people for this reality but also equips teachers with the necessary tools to integrate AI effectively into school curriculum.
Through collaboration between schools, companies, and institutions, this project demonstrates how education can be modernized to align with labour market needs. The hope is that initiatives like this will expand, becoming a benchmark for the education system and providing young people with the skills and awareness to face the future with confidence.
