FIST Industry Session Highlights AI and Data Skills for Future Graduates

More than 100 students and academics took part in an Industry Knowledge Sharing Session titled “What Industry Really Wants: AI, Data Analytics and the Future of Graduate Employability”, held virtually on 9 September 2026.

Organised by the Faculty of Information Science and Technology (FIST), the session featured Mr Gopalakrishnan Kolandai, Chief Executive Officer of Thulija Technologies Sdn. Bhd. and Secretary General of the Data Science Association Malaysia (DSA Malaysia), who shared industry perspectives on the changing demands of employers in an increasingly AI-driven and data-focused workplace.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience in business development, technology innovation, digital transformation and startup development, Mr Gopalakrishnan discussed how AI and data analytics are changing industries and creating new expectations for graduates.

He highlighted the importance of combining technical knowledge with critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability and communication skills. He also emphasised the need for graduates to continue developing their capabilities through professional certifications, industry projects, internships and lifelong learning.

The session also covered emerging career opportunities in areas such as AI, data science, machine learning, business intelligence and digital technologies. Participants gained insights into current industry trends and the growing importance of data literacy in workplace decision-making.

The sharing concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing students to engage directly with the speaker and gain a better understanding of how they can prepare for the evolving demands of the technology industry.