Optus Business has reportedly declared a partnership with Curtin University, that will see the duo work together on the expansion and innovation of artificial intelligence (AI) and will initiate the development of an AI excellence center.

According to trusted sources, a new research group under the partnership will operate out of the School of Electrical Engineering, Mathematical Sciences and Computing, to focus on the impact of AI on higher education, urban environment, and regional telecommunication.

The five-year-long commitment will see the appointment of an Optus chair in AI and the three Optus Research Fellows, and funding for Ph.D. scholarships and student projects, the company stated.

According to Deborah Terry, Vice-Chancellor Professor, Curtin University, the five-year agreement is made on the grounds of a common  vision and strong track record of industry engagement and innovation. She added that it will also enable Curtin University to train highly skilled and industry ready students for the future.

As per John Paitaridis , Managing Director, Optus Business, the partnership will assist in building real-world solutions while honing the skills of the upcoming workforce. Paitaridis further explained how understanding the application of AI plays a key role in the process of helping organizations address digital disruption.

Formerly, with a focus on building cybersecurity skills, Optus Business along with La Trobe University in Melbourne made an investment of AU$8 million to form a cybersecurity degree that aims to develop research programs, courses with multiple specializations, and scholarships for students to pursue an education in cybersecurity, cite trusted sources.

According to sources familiar with the development, the cyber degree was a result of an AU$10 million co-investment that the company made with Macquarie University to establish a cybersecurity facility that would offer degree programs, research, executive and business short courses, recruitment opportunities, and consultation to government agencies and private sectors.  

For the record, Optus’ parent company Singtel declared the establishment of an SG$42.4 million Cognitive and Artificial Intelligence Lab for Enterprises (SCALE) for developing applications across public safety, transportation, smart city, and healthcare solutions.