Curtin Colombo launches new degrees specialised in AI

By Safna Malik 

In response to the increasing global demand for expertise in AI and Machine Learning, Curtin University Colombo, marking its 25th anniversary, has introduced two new programs: the BSc in Data Science, specialising in AI, and the Master of Artificial Intelligence. These new degrees are a significant addition to the university’s academic portfolio.

Speaking about the expansion of AI and Data Science education in Sri Lanka, Curtin University Colombo Managing Director, Prof. Lalith Gamage, said that as AI continues to grow rapidly, the demand for skilled professionals in the field is accelerating, and IT has changed fundamentally. He reflected on the early 2000s, noting that while the IT industry’s potential was clear, its immense scale was underestimated. 

He asserted that IT is now the leading field for income generation and growth, a strong sector that consistently expands by 25% every year. 

“The global market is shifting as the world moves to data-driven intelligence. If we don’t upgrade our students’ skills to include AI and Data Science today, our industry will become outdated,” he said.

He added that a unified strategy is essential to capture this expanding sector. “Our mission as educators is clear: we are committed to training the necessary professionals who will lead the industry. These new AI and Data Science programs are not mere additions to our curriculum; they are the foundation for our national economic growth.” 

As Sri Lanka accelerates toward digital transformation, these programs will equip the next generation with cutting-edge skills in AI, machine learning, advanced analytics, and computational science.

Providing an international outlook on regional skills, the Australian High Commission, New Delhi, First Secretary for South Asia (Education and Research), Nathaniel Webb, addressed the growing need for expertise in AI and Data Science across South Asia and commented on Sri Lanka’s position within this dynamic landscape.

Webb noted that diverse parts of the region are heavily involved in AI adoption. He explained that digitalisation is a prioritised goal, leading to a massive transformation across a whole range of sectors, including agriculture, public health, and finance, all of which equally require AI expertise.

Addressing a common concern about this transformation, Webb acknowledged the public anxiety about losing jobs to an AI specialist or facing a downturn in the job market in the near future. He emphasised that this concern itself demonstrates the high demand for AI and Data Science professionals.

Explaining the region’s demographic advantage and its potential, he said, “South Asia’s demographic dominance over the next five to 10 years means it will be highly developed. Curtin University Colombo is on the front foot to deliver these programs to Sri Lankan students, which lays a foundation for the future.”

Department of Education Australia, First Assistant Secretary International, Karen Sandercock, commented on the significance of the partnership. “We are delighted to see Australian universities partnering with the region to help and support local educational needs, and Curtin University is playing a significant role in this effort.

The Australian Government and the Education Ministry here work together not only to deliver that value but also to build important connections across the region,” she said. 

SLIIT Pro Vice-Chancellor Computing, Prof. Nuwan Kodagoda, also said the programs equip students with the technical skills needed to develop, deliver, and clearly explain the complex methods that power AI tools.

Explaining the relevance of the new programs, Curtin University Colombo Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahesha Kapurubandara said the BSc in Data Science, specialising in AI, prepares students to thrive at the forefront of the digital revolution. The Master of Artificial Intelligence is a one-year postgraduate degree designed for professionals and graduates pursuing advanced expertise in artificial intelligence, computational intelligence, and cutting-edge AI technologies.

The degree builds strong foundations in statistics, programming, and data engineering, offering advanced expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, and deep learning.

She pointed out that the new curriculum is specifically designed to give students practical experience and industry-relevant coursework. Students will learn to design intelligent systems, extract insights from complex datasets, and apply AI responsibly across diverse sectors such as finance, healthcare, cybersecurity, and smart manufacturing, equipping graduates for high-demand careers in Sri Lanka and overseas.

Speaking about specific student benefits, the students enrolled in these programs will benefit from an internationally recognised curriculum, receiving a degree certification identical to that awarded in Australia. This ensures graduates benefit from Curtin University’s established global reputation and credibility. The program accepts new students twice a year, in February and July, with a 25% introductory scholarship for the first year.

Students can enjoy exceptional overseas mobility opportunities as part of Curtin University’s worldwide network. Students have the option to transfer to any Curtin global campus, including Perth, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, and Mauritius, provided the same degree is offered at those campuses. Students can also transfer for a semester, gaining international exposure and diverse academic perspectives.

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Shehan Gunasekara