The field of artificial intelligence is essentially when machines can do tasks that typically require human intelligence. It encompasses machine learning, where machines can learn by experience and acquire skills without human involvement. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning where artificial neural networks, algorithms inspired by the human brain, learn from large amounts of data.

Deep Learning is required in many fields and to build smart applications. It is a novel and complex area and requires expert training. The HRDC’s Skills Studies for the ICT sector as well as other sectors have emphasised on the need for talent in Artificial Intelligence.  However, the lack of talent and qualified workers is the greatest single barrier to the implementation of Deep Learning across business operations. This lack of resource is widening the gap between skills delivered at university level in deep learning and the world of work.

Presently, there is a dearth of experts in Mauritius to deliver such courses. In this respect, the services of an expert from South Africa has been solicited by the University of Mauritius to deliver training for 30 participants comprising students and lecturers. Students with backgrounds in IT/Mathematics/Engineering, having followed this course, would be able to work in all the areas requiring deep analysis and evaluation of data (such as classification and clustering). These students can work in IT industries, banking and finance, among others. Academic staff competent in Deep Learning can in turn integrate some aspects of Deep Learning in modules as well as act as resource persons locally.

The broad objectives of the project are to:

• Provide lecturers with the opportunity to upgrade their skills and knowledge in Deep Learning which is an industry focused technology;
• To improve the employability of ICT graduates;
• To build internal capacity of University academic staff in deep learning for transfer of knowledge; and
• To link universities with advanced foreign resources in deep learning to raise the level of academic staff and students in the field of artificial intelligence.