Wawasan Open University (WOU) is taking a decisive step to equip its students with essential skills for the digital economy. The university is offering unlimited complimentary access to eighty curated Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) courses. These courses, available to both new and current students, cover a wide range of AI-related topics, from foundational principles to advanced applications in Business, Digital Transformation, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
This initiative reflects Wawasan Open University’s commitment to providing flexible, high-quality education. The aim is to ensure students are not only prepared for today’s workforce but are also future-ready to excel in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
According to Professor Dr Lily Chan, Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of Wawasan Open University, AI stands at the forefront of technological innovation, driving investment and transforming industries globally. In 2023 alone, generative AI attracted over MYR 101.5 billion (USD 21.8 billion) in funding worldwide, highlighting its critical role in shaping the future of work.
In Malaysia, the AI market is expected to grow significantly, with an annual growth rate of 31% from 2024 to 2032. The market value is projected to reach MYR 15.1 billion (USD 3.23 billion) in key areas such as machine learning, data mining, and analysis. To address the expected demand for an AI-skilled workforce, Wawasan Open University is introducing a range of Gen AI courses. This initiative aligns with the government’s MyDigital Blueprint to strengthen the AI ecosystem and nurture AI startups.
The eighty Gen AI courses are a complimentary benefit for all students. Any student who enrols in a diploma, graduate, or postgraduate programme at Wawasan Open University automatically gains access to these AI courses. Students can select courses that align with their career goals and complete them online through the university’s Flex Learn eLearning portal.
The AI courses offered cover four key areas:
- Foundation in Gen AI: A solid introduction to core AI concepts and basic applications.
- AI for Business: Courses on how AI can transform business strategies and drive innovation.
- AI in STEM: Focus on using AI to advance research and development in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- AI in Digital Transformation: Practical insights into how AI drives digital transformation across various industries.
Each Gen AI course offers a unique opportunity to develop expertise in AI. For example, “Introduction to Generative AI” provides a solid foundation in AI principles while engaging with tools like GitHub Copilot and DALL-E. “Integrating GenAI into Data-Driven Marketing Strategies” explores how AI enhances marketing through improved insights and personalisation. The “ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis” course helps students boost productivity by automating data analysis and content creation, even without prior programming knowledge. Meanwhile, “Introduction to AI and Machine Learning on Google Cloud” guides learners through AI and ML project development, tailored to specific career goals.
Wawasan Open University’s Gen AI curriculum is developed in collaboration with Coursera, a globally recognised leader in online education. This partnership ensures the courses adhere to the highest international standards, providing students with access to advanced AI education.
Enrolment for Wawasan Open University’s September intake is now open. New students can take advantage of this offer when they sign up for any diploma or degree programme. Looking ahead, the university plans to integrate accredited AI courses into the core curriculum of its major degree programmes by 2025, ensuring students are future-ready in an increasingly AI-driven world.
For more information or inquiries about Wawasan Open University’s Gen AI offering, visit www.wou.edu.my, call or WhatsApp +60 19 474 9323, or email enquiry@wou.edu.my.
