MERIT Project Kicks off Four International Master’s Programmes in ICT across Europe

In September 2024, the MERIT project successfully launched four master’s programmes aimed at equipping students with advanced digital skills to meet the growing demand for experts in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

With the participation of four European universities, three of which have already commenced their programmes, the MERIT initiative is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital transformation across Europe.

The MERIT project has a clear goal: to bridge the gap between the industry’s need for digital experts and the skills students bring to the table. These master’s programmes provide comprehensive education in high-demand sectors, ensuring that students are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge but also with hands-on experience and practical skills that meet the current and future needs of the industry. The launch of these programmes has already attracted a significant number of students from across Europe and beyond, with participation exceeding initial expectations.

The following programmes are offered in the frame of the MERIT initiative:


Strong Enrolment and Gender Representation

The response to these programmes has been highly positive, with student numbers across the universities reflecting a successful intake. The participation levels have reached impressive figures, especially considering the rigorous academic and technical nature of the programmes.

At VILNIUS TECH, the Engineering of Artificial Intelligence (EAI) programme has enrolled 19 students (16 men and 3 women). The gender distribution, however, highlights the continued challenge of achieving gender parity in technical fields, with only 16% female representation. Meanwhile, the Management of Artificial Intelligence Solutions (MAIS) programme at VILNIUS TECH has achieved a notable success in gender balance, with women making up 56% of the 18 enrolled students (10 women and 8 men). This achievement underscores the increasing appeal of AI-related management roles for women in the technology sector.

At UPC, the Machine Learning and Cybersecurity for Internet-Connected Systems (MERIT) programme has enrolled 19 students. The gender ratio here reflects a common trend in STEM fields, with 84% male (16 men) and 16% female (3 women).

The Industrial Engineering and Management (MARM) programme at TALTECH has also seen a solid intake with 22 students enrolled. Gender distribution shows that 27% of the students are female (6 women, and 16 men), a higher representation compared to some of the more technical AI and cybersecurity-focused programmes.


Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Digital Transformation

The MERIT project’s master’s programmes are uniquely designed to address the current skills gap in digital sectors such as AI, IoT, and cybersecurity, all of which are critical to Europe’s digital future. These programmes also provide students with the opportunity to collaborate on real-world projects, engage in cross-border learning, and benefit from the expertise of leading professionals in the field.

As part of the project’s ongoing efforts, students from participating universities will have the chance to engage in mobility programmes, allowing them to experience different academic environments and industrial practices across Europe. The upcoming Management of Smart, Resilient and Interconnected Systems programme at RTU is also eagerly anticipated, with further details to be announced soon.

With strong enrolment figures and a growing interest in the programmes, the MERIT project is well on its way to fulfilling its mission of advancing digital skills in Europe and fostering a new generation of digital leaders ready to tackle the challenges of the future.

For more information about the MERIT project’s master’s programmes, visit this page.

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