2024

21 May

UCSI University partners with Palo Alto Networks and Ember Sdn Bhd

From left: UCSI University deputy vice-chancellor of Research and Postgraduate Studies Distinguished Prof Phang Siew Moi, Ember Sdn Bhd CEO Chai Qiaozi, UCSI University deputy vice-chancellor of Academic and Internationalisation Prof Datuk Dr Rohana Binti Yusof, Palo Alto Networks Malaysia country manager Sarene Lee, and UCSI University director of the Institute of Computer Science and Digital Innovation Asst Prof Ts Dr Raenu AL Kolandaisamy ink two groundbreaking MoUs.

KUALA LUMPUR – UCSI University is partnering with Palo Alto Networks - the world's leading firewall provider - and Ember Sdn Bhd to enhance cybersecurity education and AI-driven learning platforms.

This comes after the three parties inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at UCSI that empowers students with industry-driven curricula, leading cybersecurity systems and innovative learning methods.

The MoU with Palo Alto Networks ensures that UCSI can continue exploring digital opportunities without being hindered by cyber risks such as ransomware and cryptojacking.

Under Palo Alto's generous sponsorship, UCSI becomes the first university in Malaysia to gain access to its academic platform, enabling students to obtain industry-recognised certifications before graduation.

Furthermore, Palo Alto Networks will sponsor the top prize of RM10,000 in UCSI's upcoming hackathon.

The second MoU, signed with Ember Sdn Bhd revolves around exploring new possibilities in AI-driven education.

As young learners gravitate towards online learning and microcredentials, universities like UCSI must adapt to match the preferences of the new generation.

Under this collaboration, Ember Sdn Bhd and UCSI University will jointly develop avatar lecturers to conduct online lectures, leveraging cutting-edge AI technology.

These avatars and the underlying AI systems will have the capability to detect inattentive or sleepy students, ensuring an engaging and personalised learning experience.

“Industry relevance is one of UCSI’s calling cards and today’s MoUs keep this long-standing tradition alive,” said Professor Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir, CEO of UCSI Group and vice-chancellor of UCSI University.