UTT, PowerGen sign MoU on AI, digitalisation

THE University of TT (UTT) and the Power Generation Company Ltd (PowerGen) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on July 5 at the Chaguanas Campus, solidifying a strategic partnership.

A media statement on July 25 from PowerGen said, “The signing of the MoU represents a step forward in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the power sector and PowerGen’s role in helping to create a more sustainable and innovative future for TT.”

The statement added that UTT chairman Prof Clément Imbert reiterated the university’s dedication to advancing education, research, and innovation.

He recalled his extensive experience in the power sector and expressed confidence that this partnership would yield meaningful contributions to the country’s technological and environmental landscape.

UTT’s acting vice president for research, academic, and student affairs, Prof Rean Maharaj, said the MoU focuses on developing and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalisation to revolutionise industries by enhancing efficiency and unlocking new potential.

He added that a robust cyber security framework ensures the stability of computing systems and allows organisations to leverage AI and digitalisation confidently.

The statement added that Maharaj referenced the recently launched Caribbean Cybersecurity Institute at UTT’s John S Donaldson Port of Spain Campus, which he said emphasises the university’s commitment to equipping professionals with the necessary skills to address cybersecurity challenges.

UTT acting president Prof Stephen Joseph welcomed the senior management from PowerGen to the event, which marks a significant collaboration to drive technological innovation, sustainability and competency development.

PowerGen’s general manager Dr Haydn I Furlonge noted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the company as the largest and longest-serving independent power producer in this country.

He spoke about the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry as a means of bringing real commercial value via more sustainable and efficient operations, which can lead to energy and cost savings.

“This MoU seeks to explore ways in which both PowerGen and UTT can benefit,” he said.

Furlonge acknowledged UTT’s role in developing technologies and producing industry-ready graduates.

He added that the MoU would support PowerGen’s digital transformation initiatives in business processes and technical areas like reliability.

It is also aimed at helping protect the information technology and operational technology systems from cyber threats and the company’s drive to improve operational efficiency to secure a sustainable future.