The University of South Wales is stepping up its investment in artificial intelligence skills as it looks to prepare its workforce, students and the wider region for an economy increasingly shaped by AI and data.
Around 150 managers at the University will undertake dedicated data and AI literacy programmes as part of a new partnership with the Data & AI Literacy Academy, with training and masterclasses subsequently being made available to staff across USW.
The initiative represents part of a wider effort by the University to build its internal AI capability while strengthening its role in preparing South Wales for the technological changes expected to reshape businesses, jobs and public services.
USW is the largest recruiter of Welsh-domiciled students in South Wales, giving the University a potentially important role in ensuring communities across the region can participate in the economic opportunities created by AI.
The programme will initially focus on improving how staff understand and use data and AI, including supporting better decision-making, improving services for students and identifying opportunities to increase efficiency.
It builds on existing work by USW around data governance, quality, infrastructure and organisational transformation.
The University says developing AI literacy is also closely connected to its wider objectives around widening participation, social mobility and regional economic prosperity.
Professor Osama Khan, USW Vice-Chancellor, said:
“As a university deeply connected to the communities we serve, we have a responsibility to prepare our staff, students and graduates for a world increasingly shaped by data and AI.
“When used effectively, data can help improve student outcomes, enhance services and enable more strategic decision-making. Combined with AI, there are also opportunities to increase efficiency, personalise support and deliver greater value for students, colleagues and stakeholders.
“This partnership is about creating opportunities, building capability and ensuring that our people have the confidence to use new technologies in ways that improve outcomes for students and strengthen our region.
“By investing in data and AI literacy today, we are investing in better futures for our communities tomorrow.”
Greg Freeman, CEO and Founder of Data & AI Literacy Academy, said:
“The University of South Wales has a clear plan and a leadership team ready to act on it. Our role is to give their people a genuine understanding of data and AI, not just the buttons to press.
“That foundation is what turns investment in tools into real change for an institution and the region it serves.”
The programme will see on-demand learning and masterclasses rolled out more widely across the University during the next academic year.
