Giving students access to artificial intelligence is one step; helping them use it effectively is another. The University of Leicester is working with Microsoft to provide practical training alongside its rollout of Microsoft 365 Copilot to every student.
The Copilot for Life programme includes in-person workshops led by Microsoft specialists throughout October and November. Sessions begin with everyday student challenges, exploring how AI can support studying, budgeting, meal planning and other activities while developing the judgement needed to use it responsibly.
All Leicester students received access to Copilot through their university IT accounts in September. The training builds on that provision, with the university aiming to develop skills students can carry into employment.
‘Artificial intelligence will shape every sector our graduates enter,’ said Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah, Leicester’s president and vice-chancellor. ‘Universities have a responsibility not only to help students understand these technologies, but to equip them with the skills, confidence and critical thinking needed to use them effectively and responsibly.’
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The initiative forms part of a wider collaboration between Leicester and Microsoft covering teaching, research and university services. Leicester has also introduced Welcome Helper, a Copilot-based assistant that directs students towards information about university life, services and opportunities.
The programme sits alongside the university’s commitment that every undergraduate will complete at least 100 hours of employer-informed work-related learning during their degree.
For students preparing to enter workplaces where AI tools are becoming more common, the emphasis is on gaining experience with the technology and understanding how to use it appropriately.