COLCHESTER pupils explored the future of technology at an artificial intelligence conference.
Pupils in Years 9 to 11 from St Mary’s Senior School took part in the event at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus on Wednesday, January 14.
The conference aimed to give the girls a realistic and informed understanding of the fast-growing world of AI while experiencing university life first hand.
Nicola Griffiths, principal at St Mary’s, said: "We would like to extend sincere thanks to the University of Essex for hosting this outstanding event and for working in partnership with us to deliver such an engaging and forward-looking educational opportunity for the girls.
"At St Mary’s it is our mission to empower girls by inspiring them to see the world as one of limitless possibilities and by equipping them with the knowledge, experiences and skills needed to thrive at school and beyond.
"There is a need for women to play a greater role in the world of work and society as a whole and this AI conference sent our pupils away feeling very inspired and excited about the opportunities ahead."
The conference offered a mix of interactive workshops and seminars covering topics such as AI in security, AI in travel and tourism, and evolutionary theory with AI and machine learning.
The day began with a keynote address from Dr Haidar Raza, senior lecturer in AI at the University of Essex’s School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering.
Dr Raza provided an expert overview of the AI landscape and the career opportunities emerging in the field.
Through hands-on sessions, pupils explored AI tools and began to consider the skills needed for future jobs in an AI-driven world.
University of Essex student ambassadors supported the day by guiding students around the campus and sharing their personal experiences of university life.
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Pupils shared positive feedback from the day.
One said: "I really enjoyed the hospitality and travel and tourism section."
Another student said: "Life science and psychology was the session I enjoyed the most."
Students also praised the speakers, describing them as "Really great, engaging talks – kind and approachable lecturers",
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