First Lady Melania Trump urged students across the country to approach artificial intelligence with curiosity, creativity, and intellectual honesty during a nationwide education initiative announced January 16 by the White House.
According to the White House, the initiative reached thousands of schools nationwide through a partnership with Zoom Communications, with a focus on helping students understand how artificial intelligence can support education and future career paths.
“The Age of Imagination is a new era, powered by artificial intelligence, where one’s curiosity can be satisfied almost magically, in seconds,” Mrs. Trump said, according to prepared remarks released by the White House.
Curiosity as the Foundation for AI Use
Mrs. Trump emphasized curiosity as a central skill for students navigating emerging technologies, describing it as the driving force behind innovation and discovery.
“History reminds us that curiosity is the driving force behind every great achievement,” she said. “The world’s greatest minds – our writers, architects, scientists, and painters – all had endless interest about human nature, and they all questioned that which was yet to be answered.”
She encouraged students to view artificial intelligence as a tool for exploration rather than a substitute for thinking.
“Although artificial intelligence can generate images and information, only humans can generate meaning and purpose,” Mrs. Trump said. “Choose to let your imagination drive your intellectual progress. But never use AI as a quick solution. Be intellectually honest with yourself – use AI as a tool – but do not let it replace your personal intelligence.”
Industry Partnership and AI Literacy
Zoom founder and CEO Eric Yuan also addressed students, highlighting the importance of responsible and ethical AI use.
“AI is changing how we learn, work, and connect every day,” Yuan said. “That’s why it’s so important to help students and educators build AI literacy and feel confident using these tools in thoughtful, creative, and ethical ways.”
Part of Broader Global Effort
The initiative builds on Mrs. Trump’s broader technology and child-focused agenda, including Fostering the Future Together, a global coalition promoting responsible technology use and child online safety.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, South Korea became the first nation to formally join the Fostering the Future Together initiative through a technology cooperation agreement announced in November 2025.
The White House said Mrs. Trump plans to call on the international community to support children’s access to technology and education during the United Nations General Assembly later this year. She is also expected to host the inaugural meeting of Fostering the Future Together at the White House this spring.
In closing her prepared remarks, Mrs. Trump encouraged students to pursue learning with persistence and purpose.
“Knowledge is power. Nobody can take it away from you,” she said. “Good luck and wishing you a successful year ahead.”
