Western Sydney University and Microsoft join forces to prepare students for an AI-driven world

Western Sydney University and Microsoft have joined forces to unlock new opportunities to empower students to succeed.

The transformative partnership will deliver a game changing new program to enhance the student experience and offer training for students to develop the critical digital skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Building on the strong foundations established by the University, the partnership will harness Microsoft’s global expertise to address the evolving needs of today’s learners and prepare graduates for the jobs of the future. With a deep understanding of today’s technological landscape, the collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide and empower students.

Powered by Microsoft technologies, the University will deliver an innovative new app on every student’s phone that reimagines the first 100 days of the student journey. With testing underway, the flagship digital platform will provide each student with tailored support from early 2026 as they transition into university life.

As part of the Western 100 initiative the digital platform will utilise cutting-edge digital design to provide just in time information to students and real-time insights into their engagement, providing deeper understanding of those who may need extra support.

The platform will help ensure no student slips through the cracks and will allow staff to deliver timely, personalised care during the crucial first 100 days of the student journey. It will create a holistic and engaging onboarding experience that sets students up for long-term success.

Western Sydney University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said the partnership will not only enhance the student experience but will accelerate digital innovation in higher education.

“Collaborating with Microsoft is more than a shared vision, it’s a platform to take meaningful action and drive transformation in a changing world,” said Professor Williams.

“Together, we will reimagine how a university can operate in a digital-first environment; building future skills, empowering our people, and fostering a sense of belonging for our students.

“Built on ambition and aligned values, the partnership reflects our commitment to innovation with purpose, to equity in access, and to delivering real outcomes that matter to our students, our communities, and the future of work.”

Western Sydney University and Microsoft have marked the collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The partnership will aim to unlock meaningful outcomes across three key areas.

• Transform the student experience: Ensure every student is empowered to learn, succeed and thrive. Enhance each student’s journey by responsibly leveraging AI and digital innovation, including inclusive, equity-first design — ensuring access, digital literacy and benefits for all students, regardless of background or ability.
• Uplift the staff experience: Empower every staff member to thrive and do their best work by harnessing technology to drive digital fluency.
• Build critical future skills: Offer students and educators the digital capabilities and career pathways needed to succeed in a changing world.

“Our partnership with Western Sydney University is a powerful example of how technology can unlock new possibilities for students, educators, and communities. Together, we’re building a digitally empowered ecosystem that not only enhances learning and research, but also equips the next generation with the skills and confidence to thrive in an AI-driven world,” said Adam Pollington, Microsoft’s ANZ Education Director.

The collaboration will explore a range of priorities working to build a leading AI ecosystem across Western Sydney University’s local and international campuses. Microsoft and the University will develop a series of cross-disciplinary teams to develop a pipeline of high-impact projects through a rapid design and delivery approach.

ENDS

1 October 2025

Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media Officer

Photo credit: Wendy Chung