Aguascalientes Opens AI Lab to Strengthen Student Digital Skills
Summary: Mexican state governments are expanding investments in AI education and digital inclusion as part of broader strategies to develop technology talent and support workforce readiness for the digital economy. Initiatives in Aguascalientes and Nuevo Leon, led by Governor Tere Jiménez and supported by companies including Softtek and DEACERO, aim to strengthen STEM training, improve access to digital tools and expand opportunities in technology-driven industries. The programs highlight growing public-private collaboration to address skills gaps, promote digital inclusion and enhance Mexico’s competitiveness in advanced technology sectors.
The government of Aguascalientes opened a new artificial intelligence laboratory at the Aguascalientes Center for Science and Technology Studies, (CECyTEA) Rincon de Romos campus, an initiative aimed at strengthening students’ digital competencies and expanding their academic and professional opportunities in technology-driven industries. The project was led by Governor Tere Jiménez, who said the facility will provide students with access to technological tools designed to foster innovation, scientific learning and digital literacy among young people in the state.
“With these kinds of initiatives we want our young people to be better prepared to face the challenges of the future,” Jiménez said during the inauguration ceremony. “We want them to compete globally and achieve their ambitions, and that requires perseverance and the determination to build their dreams.”
The new laboratory represents a broader effort by the state government to strengthen technological education and align student training with the demands of a global economy increasingly shaped by digital transformation and advanced technologies. Officials said the facility will enable students to develop skills related to artificial intelligence, innovation and applied science, providing hands-on experience that could support careers in emerging industries.
Jorge Saucedo, Director, CECyTEA Rincon de Romos campus, said the laboratory symbolizes an investment in students’ future and the development of critical competencies for the modern workforce. “This artificial intelligence laboratory represents much more than technology,” Saucedo Gaytán said. “It symbolizes opportunities, dreams and possible futures for our students. With this support, they will be able to develop creativity, innovation and skills to face the challenges of today’s world.”
Recognizing Student Achievement and Global Competitions
During her visit, the governor also recognized the achievements of the Owl Turbo Racing Team, a student group that qualified for the STEM Racing World Finals in Singapore, where they will represent Mexico against international teams.
The visit included additional activities highlighting academic performance and civic engagement among students. Jiménez led the traditional flag ceremony, awarded prizes to students with the highest academic performance and held a bicycle raffle for attendees. Members of the school’s honor guard were also recognized after securing third place in the national honor guard competition organized by the CECyTE network.
Student representative Renata Hernández said the new facility represents an important step in providing young people with access to cutting-edge technology and educational opportunities. “Today we are not only inaugurating a laboratory,” she said. “We are opening a door to the future; a space where our ideas can become projects, where curiosity turns into knowledge and where our dreams begin to take shape.”
Nuevo Leon Launches Technology Classroom to Expand Digital Inclusion
While Aguascalientes focuses on artificial intelligence education, authorities in Nuevo Leon are advancing digital inclusion through a partnership between government and private-sector organizations. The state’s Ministry of Equality and Inclusion, together with DEACERO and Softtek, inaugurated the Softtek/DeAcero Technology Classroom at the Valle Soleado Community Center. The initiative aims to expand access to digital tools and training for children, youth and adults.
The classroom includes computers, internet connectivity, furniture and climate control systems, as well as digital training programs focused on technological skills, logical thinking and STEAM education. “We believe in the power of technology to change lives,” said Fernando Nava, Corporate Sustainability Director, Softtek. “This classroom does not just bring computers; it opens doors to learning, employment and social mobility. Every alliance that expands digital access is an investment in Mexico’s future.”
The project forms part of a broader strategy led by Martha Herrera, Minister of Equality and Inclusion for the Nuevo León, to promote partnerships between government, business and community organizations aimed at generating sustainable social impact.
Alicia Núñez, Director, Fundación DEACERO, said expanding access to technology plays a key role in strengthening communities. “Access to technology is a tool for equity,” Núñez said. “We support projects that strengthen communities through education and employability. This alliance with Softtek and the Ministry of Equality and Inclusion reflects our commitment to a fairer and more prepared Mexico.”
Mauricio Canseco, Deputy Minister of Social Investment and Strategic Alliances, Nuevo Leon’s Ministry of Equality and Inclusion, said the initiative demonstrates how collaboration across sectors can help address digital inequality while creating opportunities for economic growth. “Technology is not just a tool; it is a gateway to well-being and social mobility,” Canseco said.
Juan Carlos Meade, Director of Strategic Alliances, Ministry of Equality and Inclusion, explained that the program combines corporate support with public administration to ensure long-term sustainability. “Here in Nuevo Leon, companies provide the computers while we handle operations, maintenance, data and management,” Meade said. “Many people lack access to computers or do not know how to use them, so digital inclusion requires careful attention.”
According to program estimates, each technology classroom generates a Social Return on Investment of 7:1, meaning that for every peso invested, communities receive seven pesos in measurable social benefits. The initiative illustrates a collaborative development model in which government, business and civil society work together to expand educational access and promote inclusive economic growth in Mexico.