On November 19, Tsinghua University hosted the High-Quality Development Symposium on Artificial Intelligence Talent Cultivation and the launch ceremony for a new AI textbook series, a key milestone for AI education in China. The event brought together experts and scholars to engage in in-depth discussions on innovations in AI education, pathways for AI talent development, and the creation of a comprehensive AI textbook system.
Developed by Tsinghua University in collaboration with seven other universities, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Meituan, a tech-driven retail company, the new AI textbook series represents a collective effort of top scholars both within and without China. The series not only covers core foundational theories and algorithmic models of AI but also delves into cutting-edge topics such as generative AI, embodied intelligence, and large language models, with a focus on multi-modal and interactive learning. Supporting resources including knowledge graphs, virtual teaching and research offices, and demonstration course videos have been rolled out simultaneously.
In his opening remarks, PENG Gang, Vice President of Tsinghua University, highlighted the university's deep commitment to AI research and education. He noted that the textbook series represents not only a significant initiative for Tsinghua University to leverage its disciplinary strengths in alignment with national strategies and industry needs but also a exemplar for AI education across universities nationwide.
LU Xianhe, General Editor of Tsinghua University Press (TUP), emphasized that training AI professionals is an important mission of China's higher education. He explained that the project, which began in March 2023 through a joint effort between Tsinghua University's Department of Automation and TUP, is a key component of the Ministry of Education's higher education textbook series for strategic emerging fields during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).
TUP will promote the adoption and application of this textbook series through workshops, academic exchanges, and teacher training programs. This series will provide strong support for AI education at universities across China, helping to cultivate interdisciplinary talents with solid theoretical grounding and practical skills.
