University supports global push for next-gen tech experts

The aim is to equip the smart factories of the future with a leaner, more efficient workforce of production line workers skilled in IT, software and data handling. As industry chiefs continue to urge the government to invest more in the national skills base, the university is taking a lead in equipping the next-gen with input from global technology partner SAP.

The Industry 4.0 curriculum offers teaching materials for universities to train young talent for the production world of tomorrow, targeting engineering, business and executive MBA students. Member universities can integrate parts of the curriculum into existing seminars and create entirely new courses. The eight global universities have developed the curriculum, which includes practical units, visualisation software and a simulator. Partners include Tongji University Shanghai, the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences and the Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University Mosbach.

Ardavan Amini, Senior Academic and Director of the Centre for Enterprise Systems, Birmingham City University, said: “It’s fantastic to be at the forefront of development with SAP, enabling students to gain industry knowledge with the latest technology."

Professor Mel Lees, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Birmingham City University, said: “Our Centre for Enterprise Systems is building a significant reputation as a leader of innovation. SAP is an important global partner for us and this announcement demonstrates their recognition of the work we do and the value they place on our partnership.”

After completion of the pilot phase, the Industry 4.0 curriculum will be available to more than 2,000 member universities, beginning in August 2015.