Baidu founder and CEO Robin Li has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly expand China's AI talent pool. At a recent press conference, Li revealed the tech giant's commitment to training 10 million artificial intelligence professionals within the next five years.

The announcement builds on Baidu's successful completion of its previous five-year goal. In 2020, the company pledged to train 5 million AI specialists—a target they achieved ahead of schedule in 2024. This new initiative represents a doubling of their educational efforts in the field.

To achieve this expanded goal, Baidu is launching the "Talent Development Star River" program. This specialized initiative will focus on cultivating 5 million professionals skilled in large model technology—a crucial area in contemporary AI development. The program aims not only to develop technical expertise but also to drive innovation across multiple industries.

Beyond classroom training, Baidu is creating practical opportunities for emerging talent. The company will open 21,000 internship positions specifically designed for promising students. These roles span various technical fields, offering hands-on experience that could lead to full-time employment.

This year introduces three innovative internship programs that break new ground. Selected participants will work directly on core product development and technical innovation projects. They'll gain exposure to real-world AI applications while benefiting from Baidu's substantial computing resources.

"Our technical capabilities span from chip design to application development," Li stated during the announcement. He highlighted award-winning projects as evidence of Baidu's leadership position in AI research and implementation.

The massive training initiative reflects Baidu's long-term strategic vision. As artificial intelligence transforms global industries, developing skilled professionals becomes increasingly critical. How will this investment shape China's position in the global AI landscape? Industry observers suggest it could create significant competitive advantages.

Key Points

1. Baidu commits to training 10 million AI professionals by 2030
2. New "Star River" program targets large model technology specialists
3. Company offering 21,000 internships with potential full-time roles
4. Three new internship tracks provide hands-on R&D experience
5. Initiative builds on previous successful talent development program