The University of Wolverhampton is set to launch a significant new initiative aimed at bolstering the UK’s defenses against digital threats and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. The Centre for Cyber Resilience and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI) is due to be officially opened on Friday.
Addressing Growing Threats
The establishment of CYBRAI comes at a critical time. According to The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, an estimated 43% of businesses and 30% of charities in the UK experienced a cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months. This alarming statistic translates to approximately 600,000 businesses and 60,000 charities affected.
Recent high-profile incidents, including those involving major retailers like Marks and Spencer, the Co-op, and Harrods, underscore the urgent need for enhanced expertise and resilience in the digital environment.
A Hub for Research and Innovation
CYBRAI is designed to address these “growing regional and national needs for expertise” in cyber security and AI. The centre will serve as a vital hub, bringing together academics, businesses, and government bodies to collaborate on tackling the complex challenges posed by the digital revolution.
AI is expected to be a core area of focus, explored for its potential both in providing defenses against threats and in driving economic growth. Experts believe AI technology has the capacity to automate repetitive tasks, potentially freeing up significant employee time.
Commitment to Digital Resilience
Prof Prashant Pillai, pro vice-chancellor at the university, stated, “The establishment of CYBRAI underscores the university’s commitment to addressing the critical challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution.”
He added that the centre “will be a vital hub for research, innovation, and skills development in cyber resilience and AI, not only for our region but with national and international impact.”
The launch of CYBRAI signifies a proactive step by the University of Wolverhampton to contribute significantly to enhancing cyber resilience and leveraging AI for a safer and more prosperous digital future.
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