Monash, SAS to equip students in analytics

• SAS to integrate data analytics into the university's curriculum 
• Boost digital-based learning, prepare for digitally advanced future

Monash University Malaysia and data analytics solution provider SAS Institute Inc have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide students who have completed selected units offered at the school of business, Monash University Malaysia, with a SAS Academic Specialisation.

In a statement, the university said the MoU is a joint effort by both organisations to award students who complete required courses a digital badge that the students may use online to indicate their SAS Academic Specialisation. 

It added that the partnership aspires to boost digital-based learning while preparing students for a digitally advanced future and the competitive job market.

Cheam Tat Inn, managing director (Malaysia), SAS Institute said the demand for skilled analytics talent continues to outpace supply in Malaysia, therefore it is critical to close this talent gap. 

“Our partnership with Monash University Malaysia will help to support an analytics and technology-enabled workforce through integrating the university's curriculum with SAS analytics software, equipping students with the skills to solve business problems using real-world data," he added. 

Monash University’s school of business aims to establish a long-term working relationship with SAS Institute Malaysia through this MoU by bridging the digital gap created by an inadequate pool of data experts in Malaysia. 

It said the move will also enhance the university's education strength in preparing students for a career in analytics.

Stating that digital literacy is a non-negotiable skill today, Beverley Webster, vice president (education), Monash University Malaysia said the university aims to have graduates with specialised skills in a whole range of data analytics talent. 

“We aim to nurture talent that is in high demand, talent that traverses a range of fields and discipline areas - not just the tech industries,” she added.  

Webster said data analytics has grown to be an asset in numerous industries so having access to the SAS Academic Specialisation Programme will support the university's ambitions. 

"Students can be awarded digital badges upon completing selected units offered in the school and can use them to demonstrate that they have achieved specific skills,” she said.

"This partnership aims to create a pool of talent that will fulfill the need for a data-driven economy,” said Nafis Alam, head of the school of business, Monash University Malaysia.

“Monash's School of Business and SAS have the same aspirations of equipping graduates and the existing labour force with data analytics skills.”