In 2017, Hillhouse made a generous donation to establish the Renmin University Hillhouse Academy Education Development Fund, which the school later decided to use, in part, to establish The Gaoling School of AI. Officially launched in April 2019, The School is dedicated to the study of AI in the humanities and the field’s impact on society. Drawing upon Renmin University’s world-class strength in the humanities, The School aims to set the standard for a thoughtful and interdisciplinary approach to the study of technology.

While most traditional technology institutes view engineering and technical research as distinct from the humanities, The School in was founded on the belief that an interdisciplinary approach is essential to a considered and comprehensive understanding of the modern challenges we face as a society. Specifically, it will explore how technology can be applied to areas such as philanthropy, law and economics, as well as its overall impact on society.

The School aims to serve as a model for entrepreneurs to use technology to make positive contributions to society. It encourages business leaders to consider how their technological achievements can improve people’s lives at a time when the business community is increasing its focus on both the volume and effectiveness of its philanthropic efforts.