Includes new courses on ethical data
analytics and AI; scholarship funds in data science and software
engineering; a design thinking program
LONDON, ON, Nov. 21, 2019 /CNW/ - Western University and Royal Bank of Canada have partnered to help prepare the next
generation of talent in navigating this era of unprecedented
technical transformation by establishing a program focused on the
ethical and social aspects of data analytics and artificial
intelligence (AI).
RBC's $3-million investment has
established The RBC Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
Project at Western, a unique opportunity to expand Western's
ongoing cross-disciplinary work in the fields of data analytics and
AI which focuses on answering big questions for the good of
society. RBC's support helps take that work to the next level,
while training the next generation of experts.
"This investment is a catalyst
to help Western provide tomorrow's leaders with the skillset
they'll need to navigate a world full of data and find solutions to
the challenges they will inevitably face during their careers,"
said Alan Shepard, President of
Western University. "We're excited to
be partnering with RBC to help provide and promote training of
21st century talent that's not only technically
proficient, but also ethically and socially aware."
The partnership also builds on RBC's commitment to invest in
Canada's tech talent ecosystem,
creating opportunities for RBC experts to share cutting edge,
real-life cases and help prepare future leaders for the jobs of
tomorrow. It brings together two prominent Canadian institutions
that are leading the way in preparing students with the skills
needed to succeed in today's increasingly complex digital
economy.
"Collaboration between
industry, government and academia will help to drive the future
success of Canada," said
Bruce Ross, Group Head, Technology
& Operations at RBC. "Artificial intelligence and data science
are transforming our world today, and we see a huge opportunity to
partner with Western, a leading university, to prepare the next
generation of talent with the knowledge, skills and experiences
needed to drive that success."
Details:
The project consists of a series of integrated components:
- Two new courses focusing on the ethical and social aspects of
data analytics and AI.
Courses will be developed jointly by Western's faculties of Science
and Engineering, in consultation with RBC leaders and technology
experts, to address the social impact and ethical use of big data
and AI on individuals, organizations and society.
- The establishment of two scholarship funds in Data Science and
Software Engineering.
The RBC Scholarship in Data Science and RBC
Scholarship in Software Engineering are available to third-year
Science and Engineering students, and will help support successful
applicants as they build a solid base of knowledge and technical
training required for careers in big data.
- A Design Thinking Program open to students from all Western
faculties.
The program will build skillsets in design thinking and coding.
Successful applicants will receive a stipend and have the potential
for an internship opportunity at RBC.
The courses, scholarships and design thinking program will
create meaningful opportunities to help students establish the
skills, experience, and networks they need to successfully start
their careers after graduation, including potential work-integrated
learning and internships.
About Western
Western
University delivers an academic experience second to none.
Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence
with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural
growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research
excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world
application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview,
seeking to study, influence and lead in the international
community.
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About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with
a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading
performance. Our success comes from the 86,000+ employees who bring
our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients
thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank, and one of the largest
in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified
business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional
experiences to more than 16 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 34 other countries. Learn
more at rbc.com.
We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives
through donations, community investments and employee volunteer
activities. See how at rbc.com/community-sustainability.
SOURCE RBC