AI in Action: Shaping the Future of Higher Education

About the Event

In partnership with Real, part of SThree, join us for the launch of the UCISA Thought Leadership programme, led by Former UCISA Chair, Emma Woodcock. This exclusive event continues the thought leadership conversations initiated at UCISA25, bringing together visionary CIOs and digital leaders from across the UK Higher Education sector.

Our focus will be on exploring the impact of AI on our sector and the cultural, ethical, and strategic shifts needed to harness its full potential.

Through dynamic discussions, expert panels, and a compelling transformation story, we will consider what it truly means to build an AI-ready institution, addressing pressing questions and challenges such as:

• Cultivating an AI-ready culture across academic and operational domains
• Establishing ethical frameworks and governance models for responsible AI use
• Aligning with government AI policy recommendations despite limited funding and resources
• Teaching AI to students and managing its use in learning environments
• Overcoming barriers to AI adoption in HE

Event highlights:

CIO panel & open debate

Hear directly from leading UK university CIOs who are embedding AI into their institutions. We’re thrilled to welcome Sana Khareghani, Professor of Practice at King's College London and Trustee at the Institute for the Future of Work, as a guest speaker. With her deep expertise in AI policy, ethics, and workforce transformation, Sana will bring a powerful perspective to the discussion on responsible AI adoption in education.

Transformation in practice

SThree’s (Real’s parent company) COO, Nicholas Folkes, shares a powerful 3-year journey of AI transformation—covering cultural resistance, technical skill gaps, agile delivery, and budget complexities. Learn how these challenges were tackled and what success looks like.

As our sector navigates the complex AI landscape, through this peer-led discussion, you’ll leave with practical frameworks and ideas to accelerate AI readiness in your institution.

Join us for an inspiring day of insights, networking, and transformative discussions!