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The Global Eye International Institute of Leadership (TGEIIL) concluded the second cohort of its five-day intensive summer program on Applied Artificial Intelligence and Agentic Systems, held July 27-31, 2026, at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois.
According to a statement, the program brought together 30 high school students, including participants from outside Illinois, for an immersive week focused on artificial intelligence.
The curriculum featured guest lectures by leading professors and scientists, interactive discussions with industry experts, and hands-on project sessions using low-code and no-code AI tools and platforms.
“Students worked to design and develop AI-powered applications and agents addressing real-world problems,” the statement said.
The graduation ceremony featured Greg Hart, president of the Village of Hinsdale; Pat Merryweather-Arges, board chair of St. Bernard Hospital; Chenna Govindasamy, chief architect at IBM Consulting Services; and NavaJeevan Rajaiah, CEO of InsOps Inc., as guests of honor. Visionary leader Sam Pitroda joined the event via teleconference.
The program opened with a welcome address by Vasavi Chakka, provost of TGEIIL, followed by opening remarks from Kathy Thorat, vice chair of the TGEIIL Board of Trustees. Prof. Ranga Chandrasekaran, course director, provided an overview of the week-long program, highlighting its emphasis on experiential learning, engagement with experts, and the rapid development of practical AI solutions.
A highlight of the ceremony was the student project showcase, during which teams demonstrated AI applications and intelligent agents they developed throughout the program, according to the statement.
In his keynote address, Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, founder and executive chairman of TGEIIL, reflected on the origins of the institute and his own experiences in student leadership. He encouraged students to broaden their participation in “school clubs, leadership activities, and civic initiatives,” emphasizing that such experiences can help prepare them to become future leaders who use their skills and expertise to “positively shape society.”
Dr. Prabhakar said the Global Eye International Institute of Leadership believes leadership in the 21st century requires more than knowledge, adding that it also demands adaptability, lifelong learning, ethical responsibility, and the wisdom to use technology for the greater good.
“AI should never replace human values; rather, it should amplify human potential,” he added.
Addressing students via teleconference, Global Knowledge Initiative NFP Chairman Sam Pitroda spoke about the “transformative” role of AI in shaping the emerging global landscape. He encouraged participants to embrace AI, develop a deeper understanding of the technology, and apply it effectively in their future careers.
Guest speakers also shared perspectives from their respective fields. Hart highlighted the importance of civic leadership and discussed AI’s potential to improve public services. Merryweather-Arges praised the quality of the student projects and pointed to opportunities for AI to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly for seniors and geriatric populations.
Govindasamy encouraged students to continue refining their projects and deepen their expertise in areas of interest. Rajaiah discussed AI’s expanding role across industries, including insurance, and announced internship opportunities for students who completed the program.
Students Reflect on the Program
One student said, “This was unlike any course I have ever attended. Instead of just learning about AI, we built real applications ourselves. Walking away with an app I created in just five days has given me tremendous confidence and inspired me to explore AI further.”
Another student added, “The learning was hands-on, engaging, and exciting from day one. The faculty simplified complex concepts, making AI accessible to everyone. This course transformed AI from something intimidating into something I can actually create.”
A third student said, “I never imagined I could design and launch my own AI application in just five days. The experience was practical, empowering, and truly unforgettable. It has opened a whole new world of possibilities for my future.”
Parents Share Their Perspectives
One parent said, “Enrolling our child in this course has been one of the best educational investments we have made. Learning directly from accomplished faculty associated with renowned universities, combined with personalized, hands-on guidance, is an opportunity that is difficult to find elsewhere.”
Another parent added, “We were amazed to see our child not only understand Artificial Intelligence but actually build an AI application within five days. The individual attention, mentoring, and practical approach have boosted both knowledge and confidence. We wholeheartedly recommend this program to every parent preparing their child for the future.”
A third parent said, “This is far more than an AI course. It is a foundation for future-ready learning. The confidence our child gained, the quality of instruction, and the personal mentoring made every moment worthwhile.”
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by Seetha Bala, special projects director at TGEIIL, who recognized Naveenchandra Karna, CIO of Global Eye Magazine and Executive Director of AMEC, for his continued support in implementing the AI course since its inception in 2024.
