University launches new AI department to align with national priorities

With AI reshaping production, services and talent needs, China's higher education institutions are moving quickly to keep pace.

On Friday, the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) launched its School of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, upgrading its long-established School of Information Technology and Management in an effort to align more closely with national priorities in the digital era.

UIBE president Zhao Zhongxiu called the new school "a strategic realignment" that reflects both rapid technological change and rising demand for interdisciplinary talent. Centered on a dual engine of "AI+data science", the school will integrate UIBE's strengths in economics, management, law and the humanities to build an "AI + social sciences" innovation platform.

Zhao said the school will focus on developing globally minded, innovation-oriented talent; advancing research in areas such as AI governance, computational economics and intelligent management; and expanding collaboration with leading universities, enterprises and government departments. These efforts, he noted, will help the university contribute more effectively to national goals in education, science and talent development.