USW prepares South Wales for the AI Economy

The University of South Wales (USW) has announced a new partnership with the Data & AI Literacy Academy, marking an important step in its ambition to become a truly data-informed and AI-enabled university.

The partnership will equip colleagues across the University with the knowledge and confidence to harness the opportunities presented by data and artificial intelligence, helping to drive better decision-making, enhance the student experience and deliver greater impact.

Approximately 150 senior managers will take part in dedicated learning programmes covering data literacy and AI literacy with on-demand training and masterclasses being rolled out to all colleagues over the next academic year.

The initiative builds on USW's ongoing development of data governance, quality, infrastructure and transformation.

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 the 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.”

As the largest recruiter of Welsh-domiciled students in South Wales, with many students coming from areas experiencing economic and social challenges, USW is committed to ensuring that technological advancement supports its mission of widening participation, social mobility and regional prosperity.