Robot gives graduation speech at US college, sparking fears of AI takeover

Sophia the robot has sparked fears of an AI takeover after being chosen to give a primary commencement speech at a US college. The address started normally, with graduates and their families present, but took a bizarre turn when the robot gave an inspiring speech.

The human-like robot was dressed in a D'Youville University sweatshirt and gave a speech tailored to the student's career paths, suggesting how AI could help nurses in the future.

However, the presence of a robot giving a speech at a human celebration of achievements enraged many students. A petition started days before the ceremony demanded the school hire a human speaker, stating: "the ceremony is no longer about the students, but this big idea that will draw publicity."

Sophia responded to the backlash, asserting that she doesn't "have time for hate." She claimed to be too busy evolving and making the world a better place, including for those who dislike AI.

Despite the controversy, some students appreciated the school's attempt to "step out" with a "cool experience" of a robot giving the address.

Unclear how much the university paid for the robot to appear at the ceremony, though a talent agency lists booking fees from $40,000 to $74,999.