AIIn a significant move to foster innovation and technological advancement, Michelle Donelan, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, has unveiled a plan to provide scholarships for master’s courses across England. These scholarships aim to equip students with practical skills in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. The funding will cover a range of subjects, including coding, programming, machine learning, health data science, and AI ethics. This initiative builds upon the success of previous scholarships, which were made possible through £18 million in government funding and have supported over 1,800 students over the past three years.
Boosting regional innovation in universities
In addition to the scholarships, the government has allocated £60 million to the Regional Innovation Fund (RIF). This financial commitment is designed to support universities located in regions with lower levels of research and development investment. The RIF funding will be distributed proportionally to each UK nation, with England receiving £48.8 million. Research England will oversee the distribution and management of these funds.
Scotland will benefit from £5.8 million, Wales from £3.4 million, and Northern Ireland from £2 million. These allocations are intended to stimulate local and regional economies by enhancing research and innovation capabilities within universities. The funding will provide opportunities for academic institutions to contribute to economic growth in their respective regions.
Independent review to improve sex and gender data collection
Beyond investments in education and research, the government is taking steps to address critical issues related to data collection. An independent review focused on sex and gender data will soon be launched, with the aim of facilitating better data gathering for researchers and public bodies. This initiative is supported by the Cabinet Office and the Economic and Social Research Council and will be led by Professor Alice Sullivan from University College London.
The primary goal of the review is to establish effective strategies for collecting and utilizing sex and gender data. By doing so, researchers and public institutions will be better equipped to plan and provide essential services tailored to the unique needs of different genders. The review’s terms of reference will be finalized in the coming weeks, and it is expected to conclude its work by the spring of the following year.
A forward-looking approach to technology and data
These initiatives represent a forward-looking approach to education, research, and data collection in the United Kingdom. By investing in AI and data science education, the government is equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in these rapidly evolving fields. Moreover, the commitment to regional innovation ensures that all parts of the UK can contribute to technological advancements and economic growth.
The launch of the independent review on sex and gender data underscores the government’s dedication to addressing critical societal issues through data-driven solutions. By improving the collection and utilization of sex and gender data, the UK can enhance its ability to provide equitable and inclusive services that meet the diverse needs of its population.
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