.png)
Durham University has announced a new partnership with Sage to help build AI skills and support future talent across North East England.
The partnership aims to help people develop the skills needed to succeed as technology and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the workplace.
Supporting skills for a changing world of work
By working together, Durham University and Sage will connect academic knowledge with real-world business needs. This will create practical learning opportunities and clearer pathways into employment.
Together, the collaboration will explore how to:
- Shape the future of responsible and trusted AI in finance and accounting.
- Bring together academic and industry expertise.
- Create learning opportunities that connect education with real business needs.
- Strengthen skills and future talent across North East England.
Strengthening regional collaboration
The partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting skills, innovation and opportunity across North East England.
The University continues to work closely with industry partners to ensure its education and research respond to real-world needs.
This collaboration with Sage strengthens Durham University's engagement with employers across the region. It complements wider work to build strong links between higher education and industry.
Together, these efforts help develop in-demand skills and create clearer pathways into employment for students and professionals.
North East England has recently been designated an AI Growth Zone. Durham University is playing an active role in supporting this ambition.
Through partnerships such as this, the University is helping to translate regional priorities into practical training, research and long-term opportunities for economic growth.
A shared commitment to future talent
Professor Amir Michael welcomed the collaboration and highlighted its practical impact:
"We are very pleased with our partnership with Sage. The collaboration will strengthen our applied research capacity. Durham Edge, our executive and professional education hub, will work with Sage to develop CPD and professional training courses. These will support managers and senior executives in building skills in accounting technology and analytics."
Creating opportunities across North East England
The partnership signals a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for learners, educators and businesses.
By combining expertise in research, education and industry, Durham University and Sage aim to help North East England grow a strong and future-ready workforce.
