SAS, University of Nottingham to bridge digital analytics gap

• Partnership aims to bridge digital gap for data experts in Malaysia
• Will work towards building next generation of analytics experts

The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) and SAS Institute Malaysia aims to bridge the digital gap created by an insufficient pool of data experts in Malaysia through its Nottingham University Business School (NUBS)

In a statement, UNM signatory and chief executive officer Professor Sarah Metcalfe said UNM has worked closely with SAS for nearly 16 years and are initiating this partnership to strive for a more digitally advanced future. 

“This collaboration falls in line with the Malaysia Digital Economy Cooperation’s (MDEC) mission to boost digital-based learning, to develop innovators of tomorrow and we hope to produce competitive graduates who can, in turn, further innovation and the development of Malaysia,” she said.

The integration of digital-based learning in classrooms is crucial to prepare the students of today for the ever changing and competitive job market, she said.

This is because an employee who can analyse and interpret data efficiently and effectively is a highly valuable one, she added.

SAS Institute managing director of Malaysia Cheam Tat Inn said with the demand for skilled analytics talent continuing to outpace supply in Malaysia, the company recognises the importance of bridging this talent gap.

“Companies across sectors including financial and government need analytics talent as they move towards digitalisation. Therefore, SAS is committed to growing the next generation of analytics experts and connecting employers with the talent they need,” he said.

According to UNM, data analytics has grown to be an asset in numerous industries. In business, for example, data analytics helps companies optimise performance by studying the trends of their operations to evaluate risk and predict issues. 

Essentially, interpreting this data would help companies make data-driven decisions to excel within the market, it said.

Through this partnership, UNM will also gain access to SAS Malaysia’s Joint Academic Specialisation Program for its NUBS programmes, Bachelor of Science (Hons) Finance, Accounting and Management and Bachelor of Science (Hons) Business Economics and Finance. 

The Joint Academic Specialisation will provide students and educators exposure to SAS’ solutions for a more engaging educational experience.