Written by Thomas Woodson.

In a recent announcement, Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled plans for a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming tech education in New York’s underserved communities, particularly focusing on the Bronx. Having recognized a significant disparity in technological awareness and access, the state is set to build a supercomputer center, positioning it as a beacon of learning and innovation for local youth.

Governor Hochul highlighted that many young individuals in these areas have limited exposure to computers, sparking a statewide effort to bridge this gap. By making advanced technology accessible to these students, the initiative promises to open doors to new educational and career opportunities. “Now what we have is the money to build a phenomenal supercomputer that is gonna be accessible to the researchers in New York, college students, will attract more federal grants, and this is how we lay down the mark,” she stated enthusiastically.

A Pioneering Move

New York’s commitment to this project is unmatched, aiming to lead by example in the realm of educational reform and technological advancement. Governor Hochul expressed pride in her state’s proactive approach: “No state has done this. In fact, I talk to a lot of other people who say, ‘I wish my governor had thought of that first.’ I say, ‘No no, this is New York. We like to be first,’ with all due respect to you from other states.”

This initiative is not just about introducing youth to technology but transforming their understanding of what’s possible for their futures. “It’s sort of our attitude. We will be the best, we will be the first, and I want others to follow, because right now we have young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is. They don’t know. They don’t know these things,” Hochul added, underlining the urgent need for this educational intervention.

Our Take

Governor Hochul’s initiative, while bold and innovative, has stirred some controversy, primarily due to her comments regarding the current state of tech knowledge among black children in the Bronx. While her intent to enhance education and provide equal opportunities in technology is commendable, the phrasing used might overshadow the project’s noble goals, suggesting a generalized assumption about a whole community’s familiarity with technology which might not be entirely accurate or fair.

The project itself, however, if executed with a keen focus on inclusivity and genuine community engagement, could set a powerful precedent for other states to follow. It’s crucial that such initiatives go beyond just providing the tools like supercomputers and also ensure that educators are equipped to inspire and teach effectively, making technology an integral part of learning and daily life for these young minds. In doing so, New York could indeed become a leading example of how technology can transform education for the better.