Translated by Szu-Yung Huang
Edited by Chance Lai
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To bridge the gap between academic learning and industry application, the College of Electrical and Computer Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has announced a strategic collaboration with IBM. Starting from the 2025 academic year, the university will officially integrate IBM’s enterprise-level AI platform, watsonx.ai, and its digital learning platform, SkillsBuild, into its curriculum. This initiative aims to provide students with comprehensive resources ranging from foundational learning and hands-on experience to career readiness, enhancing the real-world relevance of AI education.

Industry Experts Join Classrooms to Share Real-World Applications

The partnership stems from IBM’s ongoing “AI in Academia Program,” which brings together global technological resources and industry expertise to assist Taiwanese universities in building a robust talent development ecosystem. The program extends from classroom education to real-world application and career integration, helping solidify the deployment of AI technologies and their connection to industry needs.

Under this collaboration, NYCU will embed watsonx.ai into its coursework and project-based learning. The platform combines generative AI with machine learning tools, featuring a modular, user-friendly interface that supports an end-to-end development process, from conversational AI generation to model training. Its design makes it accessible to students of various experience levels, allowing them to better grasp AI architecture and application through hands-on practice, thereby enhancing their problem-solving and system design skills.

IBM will also assign technical experts as guest lecturers to share the latest AI use cases in manufacturing, healthcare, and finance sectors. These sessions aim to provide students with a firm understanding of industry trends and practical demands while cultivating interdisciplinary thinking and a global industry perspective.

Expanding Access to Digital Learning and Soft Skill Development

Complementing the classroom integration, IBM will open access to its SkillsBuild digital platform, offering over 1,000 courses in both technical and professional development. Course topics include AI, data science, cloud computing, blockchain, quantum computing, and essential workplace skills like project management, presentation, and communication. Upon completion, students can learn independently and receive IBM-issued digital credentials, adding valuable qualifications to their resumes.