Taizhou students kick off new school year with lesson in AI, technology

Students dance with Unitree robots. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

More than just a back-to-school lecture, Taizhou's 2026 "First Lesson of the School Year" gave students a chance to get up close with advanced technology.

Held on Aug 31 at Sanshui Junior High School in Jiangyan district, the event brought together science experiments, AI talks and hands-on activities to spark curiosity and inspire young minds.

Zhu Pengcheng, an associate professor and head of the Department of Artificial Intelligence at Taizhou University, gave a talk on how to approach artificial intelligence with a rational mindset. In plain language, he tackled students' questions and encouraged them to develop a better understanding of AI and learn how to work alongside it.

Outside, students could get hands-on with the latest tech through robot demonstrations, a 3D-printing workshop, and drone and water-rocket activities. From giving voice commands to robots to watching 3D printers at work and piloting drones, students experienced the fun of technology for themselves.