14/04/2026

TUESDAY | APR 14, 2026

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EDUCATION

A RTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept confined to science fiction. From personalised recommendations on streaming platforms to medical diag nostics and smart city systems, AI is increasingly shaping industries and transforming how people live and work. As a result, students entering uni versity today are stepping into a world where AI literacy is becoming increasingly valuable. Many students first encounter AI through tools such as generative chatbots or image generators. In reality, AI is a much broader field that combines computer science, mathematics, statistics and data analysis to enable machines to learn from data and perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These include recognising images, predicting trends, understanding natural language and supporting complex decision-making processes. AI technologies are now widely applied in

Preparing for AI-driven future with industry-relevant programmes o UTAR students equipped with strong technical foundations, AI-related knowledge

studies. UTAR also continues to strengthen international collaborations to support education in AI and data science. A collaboration with Purdue University, for example, has introduced a dual master’s degree pathway in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, providing students with international exposure and opportunities to gain advanced expertise in these rapidly evolving fields. Beyond academic programmes, UTAR supports research in artificial intelligence through its Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Computing Applications (CAICA). The centre advances research and explores practical applications of intelligent technologies in areas such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision and analytics. Students interested in pursuing AI-related studies can begin by strengthening their foundations in mathematics, logical reasoning and programming. Curiosity, creativity and a willingness to explore new technologies are equally important. As industries increasingly rely on intelligent systems to drive efficiency and innovation, graduates with AI-related skills will be well positioned to contribute to the digital transformation of society. With the right education and exposure, today’s students can become tomorrow’s innovators in the age of artificial intelligence. UTAR offers over 140 programmes from Foundation Studies to Bachelor, Master’s and PhD degrees in Accounting, Business, Finance and Economics, Actuarial Science, Mathematics and Process Management, Agriculture and Food Science, Arts, Social Sciences and Education, Chinese Studies, Creative Industries, Digital Animation, Multimedia and Design, Engineering and Built Environment, Information and Communication Technology, Life and Physical Sciences, and Medicine and Health Sciences. Visit UTAR Open Day on April 25-26, May 2-3, May 16-17 and May 23-24 from 9am to 4.30pm at both Kampar and Sungai Long campuses. For more information, go to www.utar.edu.my or call 05-468 8888 (Kampar), 03- 9086 0288 (Sungai Long).

industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation, cybersecurity and e-commerce. This growing adoption has created strong demand for graduates who possess the knowledge and skills to develop and manage

intelligent systems. For students considering AI-related fields, it is important to recognise that AI is inherently interdisciplinary. Beyond programming, the field requires logical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities and an understanding of ethical considerations surrounding the use of technology. Universities therefore play a crucial role in preparing students for an increasingly AI driven economy. At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), several programmes incorporate AI-related knowledge while equipping students with strong technical foundations. Students interested in artificial intelligence and related technologies may explore programmes offered by UTAR’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FICT). Among them is the Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), which includes an Artificial Intelligence specialisation covering areas such as machine learning and intelligent systems. UTAR also offers the Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours) (Industrial Intelligent Systems), which focuses on intelligent technologies and industrial digitalisation, as well as the Bachelor of Information Systems (Honours) (Digital Economy Technology), which examines digital technologies and their role in the digital economy. Engineering programmes also expose students to AI applications. For instance, UTAR’s Bachelor of Telecommunications Engineering with Honours introduces technologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including AI-enabled communication systems and emerging digital infrastructures. Learning about AI in university extends beyond lectures and textbooks. Practical experience, industry collaboration and research exposure are important components of modern higher education. At UTAR, initiatives such as the Alibaba Cloud Academy Skills Center provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in cloud computing technologies closely linked to AI development. The centre offers training and facilities that allow students to explore advanced technologies and obtain industry-recognised certifications during their

Practical experience, industry collaboration and research

exposure are important components at UTAR.