Scouting America Introduces AI and Cybersecurity Merit Badges for Future Generations

Scouting America Introduces Groundbreaking AI and Cybersecurity Merit Badges

For over a century, Scouting America has been at the forefront of nurturing young leaders, and this fall marks a significant milestone in that legacy. With the introduction of new merit badges in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, Scouting America is paving the way for a new generation to thrive in an increasingly digital world. These innovative badges, now available through the Scouts BSA program, empower youth to delve into the realm of technology and develop essential skills to succeed in the future.

The launch of these merit badges comes as part of a broader initiative to equip young people with the tools they need to navigate the evolving landscape of technology. The president and CEO of Scouting America, Roger Krone, emphasized the importance of adapting to the changing world. "Scouting has always been about preparing young people for life. Today, that means understanding the digital world and its impact on our lives," he stated. "These new AI and Cybersecurity Merit Badges provide Scouts with the foundation to excel in a rapidly changing environment shaped by technology."

Empowering Scouts for the Future

With the new badges, Scouts are not merely learning technical skills; they are being groomed to become the leaders of tomorrow. The skills they acquire can lead to exciting career opportunities in fields such as software development, AI engineering, cybersecurity analysis, and digital forensics. As Krone highlighted, these badges are much more than just accolades—they are a gateway to fostering digital citizenship, encouraging responsible online behavior, and nurturing curiosity about the world.

What Will Scouts Learn?

AI Merit Badge

The AI Merit Badge offers Scouts a comprehensive introduction to one of the most transformative technologies of our time. Participants will explore the fundamentals of AI, discovering its applications in daily life, while also tackling real-world challenges. Scouts will learn how to identify deepfakes, understand algorithmic bias, and evaluate the societal impacts of AI, all while fostering critical thinking about ethical considerations surrounding technology, data privacy, and responsible innovation.

Cybersecurity Merit Badge

The Cybersecurity Merit Badge equips participants with the skills needed to combat digital threats in an interconnected world. Scouts will learn to recognize various cyber threats, from viruses to social engineering attacks, and will gain hands-on experience in establishing strong passwords, utilizing firewalls and antivirus software, and understanding encryption methods. Furthermore, the badge emphasizes safe online practices, teaching Scouts the importance of protecting personal information and preventing incidents of cyberbullying.

Scouting America invites youth nationwide to embrace this digital adventure and start their journey by participating in these merit badge programs this fall. Interested individuals can visit BeAScout.org for more information and to join their local Scouting unit.

About Scouting America

Scouting America is the premier youth program in the nation, focused on character development and values-based leadership training. Their mission, centered on ensuring young people are "Prepared. For Life.®", is reflected in the diverse programs they offer. More than 130 million Americans have benefited from Scouting since its inception, with over 1 million youth currently engaged in activities led by the dedicated efforts of 477,000 adult volunteers across various local councils. To learn more about Scouting America's mission or to sign your child up for the program, visit www.BeAScout.org.