There are several excellent free resources to learn Python programming and its application in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Here are some of the best options:

1. Python.org Official Tutorial

Why it’s great: Comprehensive and beginner-friendly.
Focus: General Python programming, perfect for building a strong foundation before diving into AI.

2. Google's Python Class

Why it’s great: Offers hands-on coding exercises.
Focus: General Python programming, ideal for beginners.

3. FreeCodeCamp - Python for Beginners

Why it’s great: Interactive and community-driven.
Focus: Basics of Python programming, with some AI-related projects.

4. Kaggle Courses - Python and Machine Learning

Why it’s great: Focused on data science and AI, with practical examples.
Focus: Python for data analysis and machine learning.

5. AI for Everyone by Andrew Ng (Coursera)

Why it’s great: Offers a high-level overview of AI concepts.
Focus: Understanding AI and its applications (less on coding).

6. Fast.ai

Why it’s great: Hands-on AI and machine learning tutorials.
Focus: Python-based AI development using PyTorch.

7. Microsoft Learn AI School

Why it’s great: Offers free AI-focused learning paths.
Focus: AI concepts and Python-based implementation.

8. CodeAcademy - Learn Python

Why it’s great: Interactive and beginner-friendly.
Focus: General Python programming.

9. Towards Data Science Tutorials

Why it’s great: Practical Python AI tutorials.
Focus: Python applications in AI, machine learning, and data science.

Suggested Learning Path:

Start with basic Python tutorials (Python.org or FreeCodeCamp).
Progress to AI-specific resources (Fast.ai or Kaggle).
Explore practical projects in machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow or PyTorch).