United States First Lady Melania Trump has urged young people to embrace artificial intelligence as a creative tool while warning against depending on it at the expense of human thinking.
Trump made the call while addressing school children across the country during a webinar titled “Zoom Ahead: AI for Tomorrow’s Leaders,” organised by Zoom Communications.
Speaking from the White House, she said artificial intelligence could support creativity and learning if used responsibly, but stressed that it should never replace human intelligence.
“History reminds us that curiosity is the driving force behind every great achievement,” Trump told the students.
She said great writers, scientists, architects and artists all shared a deep curiosity about human nature and the world around them.
According to her, although AI can help generate images and information, it cannot replace human purpose and meaning.
“Artificial intelligence can generate images and information, but only humans can generate meaning and purpose,” she said.
Trump encouraged students to allow their imagination to guide their progress, while remaining honest with themselves when using technology.
“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,” she said.
She added that deep thinking, patience and curiosity were still essential, even in an age of advanced technology.
“Lead with your ideas, stay sharp, but remember — never surrender your thinking to AI,” the first lady said.
The webinar is part of a 10 million dollar initiative by Zoom Communications aimed at helping students prepare for a future where artificial intelligence will play a major role.
Zoom’s Chief Executive Officer and founder, Eric Yuan, said AI is already reshaping how people learn and work.
“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,” he added.
Other speakers at the event included digital creator Rebecca Zamolo, data and computer science specialist Kelly Schuster-Paredes, astrobiologist Alyssa Carson, Imagi co-founder Dora Palfi, and artist and futurist Agnieszka Pilat.
Yuan said programmes like the webinar would help students understand how to use AI with confidence and responsibility.
“Our goal is to ensure every learner can harness the power of AI responsibly to shape a smarter, more connected future,” he said.
Trump told students that AI offers new opportunities for creativity, from film making to fashion, music and animation, all from their homes.
“For the first time in history, young people can build their creative dreams from anywhere,” she said.
However, she repeated that technology should not replace critical thinking.
“The most powerful tool you have is knowing what to ask, why it matters, and how to think beyond the first answer,” Trump said.
She also encouraged students to remain curious and bold.
“Think outside the box. Question everything,” she said, adding that progress often begins when people challenge the status quo.
Zoom is among companies supporting the White House initiative known as the “Pledge to America’s Youth: Investing in AI Education,” led by the first lady.
