NextGen AI
Innovation Challenge
Calling All Innovators!
This is your moment to learn cutting-edge AI skills and develop an innovative software solution that transforms teaching, learning, engagement, or access in K-12 education.
Event starts in
What is the NextGen AI Challenge?
The NextGen AI Innovation Challenge is a two-day hackathon hosted by Morgan State University's Center for Equitable AI & Machine Learning Systems (CEAMLS).
High school and college students compete to build innovative AI-powered software solutions that improve teaching, learning, engagement, or access in K-12 education.
No prior AI experience is required. Hands-on workshops are provided throughout the event so every participant can learn, build, and compete.
Morgan State University is a Historically Black University (HBCU) committed to advancing equitable, inclusive, and socially responsible AI/ML systems for the benefit of all communities.
Who Can Participate?
High school and college students — individuals or teams. All skill levels welcome!
What Will I Build?
An AI software solution addressing a K-12 education challenge.
Where & When?
Morgan State University · April 11–12, 2026
Do I Need AI Experience?
No! Workshops are held during the event to get you up to speed.
Choose Your Track
Select a platform and a design approach that best fits your skills and vision.
Platform Track
macOS
Build your solution for Apple's macOS platform using Swift, Python, or web technologies.
Platform Track
Windows
Develop for Windows using .NET, Python, or web technologies to reach the broadest audience.
Design Approach
Gamified Learning
Leverage game mechanics like points, badges, challenges to make K-12 learning engaging and fun.
Design Approach
Instructional Learning
Design structured AI-driven lessons, tutoring, or adaptive curriculum tools for educators.
Perks & Benefits
Beyond building something impactful, you will gain real-world experience and rewards.
Win Up to $5,000
Cash prizes distributed across the Top 3 Teams. Make your idea count!
AI Workshops
Attend hands-on AI workshops led by researchers and industry professionals during the challenge.
National Symposium
Finalists participate in the National CEAMLS Symposium — a premier AI & ML conference.
Network & Connect
Meet and network with academic researchers and industry professionals in AI/ML.
Raffle Prizes
Win tech equipment including a 32" TV, Projectors, Speakers, Wireless Keyboards & more!
K-12 AI Education Showcase
Join us for two days of innovation and creativity! This showcase will feature educator-led projects on artificial intelligence and technology education. Enjoy engaging workshops, live demos, and valuable teacher resources!
Educator-Led Projects
Discover innovative AI projects developed by K-12 educators from across the region.
Engaging Workshops
Hands-on sessions designed to help educators integrate AI into their classrooms.
Live Demos
Experience cutting-edge AI education tools in action through interactive demonstrations.
Teacher Resources
Access valuable curriculum materials, lesson plans, and implementation guides.
Two-Day Schedule
A packed two days of workshops, hacking, demos, and awards. All meals included!
-
8:00 AM
Registration & Check-In Pick up your badge, get set up, meet fellow participants
-
9:00 AM
Opening Ceremony Welcome remarks from Morgan State University & CEAMLS leadership
-
10:00 AM
Team Formation Form your own team, get matched with participants, or compete solo!
-
11:00 AM
AI Workshop 1 Introduction to AI tools, APIs, and frameworks for education
-
12:30 PM
Lunch Break Provided for all participants
-
1:30 PM
Hacking Begins! Start building your AI solution. Mentors available throughout.
-
3:00 PM
AI Workshop 2 Advanced AI techniques — NLP, computer vision, and more
-
6:00 PM
Check-In & Progress Update Brief check-in with organizers and mentors
-
7:00 PM
Dinner Dinner provided. !
-
8:00 AM
Check-In & Morning Start Re-check in for Day 2, get energized
-
8:30 AM
Breakfast Breakfast provided for all participants
-
9:00 AM
Hacking Continues Final stretch! Mentors available for last-minute guidance
-
12:00 PM
Submissions Due All project code and documentation must be submitted by noon
-
12:30 PM
Lunch Break Lunch provided while judges review submissions
-
1:30 PM
Demos & Judging Each team presents their solution to a panel of judges
-
3:30 PM
Awards & Closing Ceremony Winners announced, prizes awarded, closing remarks
Got Questions?
Everything you need to know before registering.
- Innovation — originality and creativity of the solution
- K-12 Impact — potential to improve education outcomes
- Technical Implementation — code quality and use of AI
- Presentation — clarity and effectiveness of the demo
Sponsors & Partners
The NextGen AI Innovation Challenge is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and academic partners.
Interested in sponsoring? Contact us at k12ceamls@morgan.edu
Meet the Team
The dedicated CEAMLS team behind the NextGen AI Innovation Challenge.
Dr. Kofi Nyarko
Director, CEAMLS
Morgan State University
Ms. Zamalia Bennett
K-12 Outreach, Program Manager
Morgan State University
Ms. Farhana Begum
K-12 Outreach Program Coordinator
AI/ML Researcher
Mr. Jamal Williamson
K-12 Outreach Program Member
AI/ML Researcher
Ms. Dapiriye Briggs
K-12 Outreach Program Member
AI/ML Researcher