Fujitsu & Macquarie launch AutoML course to boost AI skills

Students and professionals have been presented with a new opportunity to develop AI skills through the introduction of an automated machine learning (AutoML) course, the result of a partnership between Fujitsu and Macquarie University.

The micro-credential course, "Fujitsu AutoML: Mastering Automated Machine Learning", was created in response to the projected need for 1.3 million technology workers in Australia by 2030, as noted in the ACS Digital Pulse report. It offers a four-week online programme that covers basic theory combined with practical exercises, focusing on automated machine learning, models, and algorithms, utilising the Fujitsu AutoML tool.

The course is currently accessible through Macquarie University and is expected to be available on other widely-used platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy. This expansion aims to provide practical and accessible training to a global audience. The collaboration leverages Fujitsu's AutoML technology to accelerate AI model generation and enhance decision-making transparency by demonstrating how the AI models are constructed.

Mahesh Krishnan, Chief Technology Officer for Oceania at Fujitsu, highlighted the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and technology firms in addressing the shortfall of skilled professionals in the AI sector. He stated, "Collaboration between universities and technology firms like Fujitsu are essential in bridging the gap between the growing demand for AI experts and the limited supply of skilled technology professionals."

Mr. Krishnan further elaborated on Australia's position, noting, "Fewer than 8.5% of Australian graduates hold an engineering qualification, ranking Australia sixth lowest among OECD countries. This impacts the ability for Australian organisations to effectively implement artificial intelligence solutions, to innovate, and stay competitive."

Professor Amin Beheshti, Director of the Centre for Applied AI at Macquarie University, expressed optimism about the collaboration's potential impact, stating, "Macquarie is the home of Fujitsu's first Small Research Lab in the Southern Hemisphere. Now, we're joining forces to give students a leg up in the booming area of AI."

The Fujitsu Macquarie AI Research Lab, established at Macquarie University, supports this collaboration by merging the university's advanced research abilities with Fujitsu's AI technology expertise. The initiative aims to democratise AI education, thus narrowing the divide between theoretical knowledge and practical application in machine learning.

Highlighting the course's broader objectives, Professor Beheshti said, "This collaboration with Fujitsu is not just about addressing the immediate need for skilled machine learning engineers. It's about paving the way for future innovations. We're also contributing to the research exploring how Generative AI can transform the field of automated machine learning. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to advancing knowledge in AI and shaping the future of technology."

In addition to enhancing AI education, Fujitsu has launched multiple initiatives within its AI platform, Kozuchi, to advance AI implementation. These initiatives include the development of multi-AI agent security technology aimed at combating cyber threats, and innovations in video analytics technologies focused on improving workplace safety and data utilisation across different sectors.