Master of Business Information Systems students recently used their skills to support kangaroo and koala conservation projects, as part of an industry partnership with Fujitsu Data & AI.
Dr Petrus Usmanij, Senior Lecturer in Business Analytics, said four teams of students worked as part of a simulated consulting firm to support wildlife monitoring projects.
“This was a great opportunity for students to undertake a real-world project, in partnership with Fujitsu Data & AI. They started by producing a design prototype for these conservation projects, and then constructed a final solution for their clients.”
Students, Sandra Chiraga and Pasindu Galgomuwa, worked together on a business intelligence solution for the ACT Government's Kangaroo Management and Ecological Balance Project.
“Working on this project was an incredible experience that allowed me to collaborate with industry experts on a tailored solution,” explained Sandra.
Pasindu says the experience boosted his confidence.
“The exposure to industry was transformative, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The experience was a testament to the power of effective communication and teamwork in achieving project goals.”
Leah Pereira worked with fellow students, Loise Githure and Mihir Pradhan, on the Wildlife Victoria Koala Conservation Project.
“One of the most significant benefits of working on this has been exposure to the entire project lifecycle,” she says.
“From data analysis to dashboard development and deployment, this hands-on experience has reinforced my technical skills and honed my ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders.”
Adam Smith, Director of Customer Success at Fujitsu Data & AI, said he was pleased to support this cohort of students.
“We shared some early work on a Fujitsu innovation project that uses AI to increases the breadth and accuracy of kangaroo density measurement data. It was great to see the project outcomes and learn more about how this technology might be used to address a range of stakeholder needs," he said.
At the completion of their projects, the students presented their solutions to the client and were awarded certificates from Fujitsu, acknowledging their participation.
“Most of the project solutions were taken on board by the clients,” Dr Usmanij said. “I am very proud to see my students successfully complete these projects each semester and develop their professional skills at the same time.”
“Our project-based learning model means students can work on real-world projects, which leads to the development of new skills and positive employment outcomes for our graduates."
