The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a prominent cybersecurity and network company in ASEAN. The two will jointly explore opportunities for collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, digital forensics, and network activities.
The collaboration between the two aims to enhance the digital upskilling of APU’s lecturers and graduates through a comprehensive program encompassing knowledge sharing, training, certification, job/internship placements, and other initiatives collectively known as ‘The Programme’.
The partnership was initiated by APU’s Head of School of Technology (SoT), and the Head of Industry Liaison Technology, at APU. The aim of the partnership is to collaboratively develop a strategic transformation action plan with the cybersecurity firm focusing on upskilling the APU workforce and students in key areas identified for development.
The agreement was signed by the cybersecurity firm’s Managing Director and APU’s Vice Chancellor on the APU campus. The signing was witnessed by the firm’s Business Development Director and APU’s Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer.
Under the collaboration, the firm will share its expertise in providing structured learning and practical experience to facilitate internships that promote the academic and personal development of APU students. Additionally, the cybersecurity company will conduct training for APU lecturers to gain industrial experience and will work in conjunction with APU to jointly develop new high-end and cutting-edge AI and Cognitive Cybersecurity programs, along with relevant training certifications.
The aim is to equip candidates with relevant industry expertise through their collaboration with APU, providing opportunities for upskilling and innovation. This will help prepare APU students and lecturers to meet the demands of the industry, as companies increasingly seek candidates with up-to-date knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving fields of AI, cybersecurity, digital forensics, and network activities.
This collaboration will lead to an increased number of new hires with specialised abilities, reducing the need for extensive training, according to a representative from the company. The firm is looking forward to closely collaborating with APU in order to support the digital transformation of the APU workforce and students, as well as provide transformational support to any staff or students participating in ‘The Programme’.
The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of both organisations to the development of technology and innovation, with the aim of enhancing the competitiveness of Malaysia’s AI, cybersecurity, digital forensics, and network sectors. This partnership underscores their dedication towards driving progress and advancing these critical areas in Malaysia’s digital landscape.
As the first private institution to adopt ‘The Programme’ in a real-world setting, APU is at the forefront of promoting technology and innovation in education. APU plans to further develop technology and innovation programs to enhance their courses, ensuring they meet the needs of their students and the ever-evolving expectations of the industry. This commitment to continuous improvement aligns with APU’s goal of staying at the forefront of providing cutting-edge education that prepares students for the demands of the modern workforce.
As per the MoU, the two will jointly identify and select students or employees who will participate in ‘The Programme’. These participants will receive academic support and access to facilities from both organisations. The parties will also provide adequate supervision and guidance to ensure that the academic and professional performance of the participants meets their standards.
Additionally, APU academicians who take sabbatical work leave will have the opportunity to gain valuable practical industry exposure through this collaboration. This will enable them to enhance their knowledge and skills by working in a real-world industry setting, contributing to their professional development and enriching their academic expertise.
