Open-Source Innovation at the University of Canberra

The University of Canberra, together with the ACT Government and an American data storage and data management services company, has unveiled the Open Source Institute (OpenSI), a visionary establishment designed to spearhead open-source research, collaboration, and innovation.

The inauguration ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Minister, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Enterprise at the University, the Vice-President and the General Manager of Instaclustr by the company, along with a distinguished gathering of attendees.

OpenSI is poised to evolve into a dynamic hub of innovation, not only for the capital city but also for the broader surrounding region. Beyond its local impact, it aspires to claim its place as a global leader in the expansive realm of open-source technology.

This institute is dedicated to delving deeply into open-source technologies, propelling the boundaries of knowledge, and offering invaluable opportunities for work-integrated learning (WIL) and internships to aspiring undergraduate IT students at the University of Canberra.

The University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise underlined the significance of this collaborative endeavour, emphasising how the tripartite partnership represents a pivotal stride towards advancing the open source sector within the ACT.

With the advent of the Open Source Institute, the University is poised to enhance its research capabilities within the realm of open-source technologies. Moreover, this partnership will effectively meld real-world industry insights and experiences into the fabric of the University’s undergraduate programs, enriching the educational landscape.

The Chief Minister expressed enthusiasm for the potential of OpenSI. He noted how this landmark initiative would bolster Canberra’s standing as a bastion of knowledge and innovation, solidifying its position on the global stage. Barr further elucidated that in a world characterized by intensifying competition for talent and investment, OpenSI’s presence would undoubtedly contribute to attracting investments and retaining skilled professionals within Canberra’s burgeoning tech industry.

The Vice President and General Manager of the partnering company’s Instaclustr arm echoed the sentiment of excitement. Drawing upon the firm’s extensive 22-year history of supporting Australia’s tech sector, Lilley emphasised the catalytic role OpenSI is poised to play.

The institute holds the potential to serve as a launchpad for the next generation of technology development, propelling the tech industry to new heights. Furthermore, he envisioned OpenSI as a driving force behind heightened tech investments and skill development, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation within Canberra’s entrepreneurial community.

Under this collaborative framework, a substantial allocation of resources will fund the appointment of a Professor specialising in the intricacies of open-source technology. Additionally, the partnership will sponsor three Higher Degree by Research (HDR) scholarships and facilitate the undertaking of three pioneering research projects. The spectrum of OpenSI’s research endeavours will span across four distinct themes: data solutions at scale, cyber security and privacy, Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, and open-source business models.

The University’s Faculty of Science and Technology is poised to play a pivotal role in this exciting journey. An intimate collaboration with the company is on the horizon, aimed at integrating crucial skill development in open-source systems, software, and tools into the curriculum of undergraduate IT courses. This strategic collaboration will equip future graduates with the proficiency and acumen required to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of open-source technology.

The inauguration of the Open Source Institute marks a significant milestone in the trajectory of open-source technology, education, and innovation. By uniting the University of Canberra, ACT Government, and the company, this institute is set to reshape the contours of the tech industry, empower a new generation of talent, and solidify Canberra’s position as a nucleus of knowledge and progress. As OpenSI embarks on this transformative journey, it is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of open-source technology and beyond.