UGA unveils $800K AI initiative

ATHENS, Ga. — The University of Georgia announced new investments in artificial intelligence and celebrated record achievements during its annual State of the University Address on Tuesday.

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President Jere W. Morehead highlighted the university’s growing impact, including a record $9.2 billion economic contribution to Georgia and $654 million in research spending last year, a 75% increase since 2015.

Morehead also unveiled an $800,000 pilot program to give thousands of students access to advanced AI tools such as ChatGPT Edu and Gemini Pro.

“We want students to build practical skills on industry-leading platforms and graduate ready to contribute on day one,” Morehead said.

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The university continues to move forward with major health initiatives, including progress toward accreditation for UGA’s new School of Medicine and construction of a $100 million medical education and research building set to open later this year.

UGA reported strong student success rates, with a 95% first-year retention rate, a 90% graduation rate and a 95% placement rate for the Class of 2024.

Morehead said a new five-year strategic plan will be released later this year to guide the university’s next phase of growth.

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