THE University Centre Truro & Penwith has officially opened its new £2.2-million AI-enabled computing and cyber labs, expanding university-level education and training opportunities in Cornwall.

The ribbon cutting took place during the University Centre's Open Evening, offering visitors, would-be students and excited staff a first look at the new facilities and the impact of this significant investment on the region’s future skills.

Funded by the Office for Students, the development was part of a highly competitive national programme, with the college one of just 60 providers selected from nearly 200 applicants.

The new labs have been developed to deliver advanced training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber security and software development, while also modernising learning environments across college campuses. In addition to the specialist labs, the funding has supported several technology teaching upgrades such as large, interactive touch screens, enhancing the learning experience for students.

The investment comes at a time of rapid growth in Cornwall’s tech sector, which is creating increasing demand for digital skills that cannot currently be fully met by the local workforce, alongside digital capability becoming essential across a wide range of professions.

Students in subjects such as construction will benefit from exposure to digital tools used in modern building design and planning, while those in healthcare and nursing are increasingly working with data-driven technologies and digital systems. In psychology, digital tools are supporting new approaches to understanding behaviour and mental health, while sport is being transformed by performance analysis and data-led training.

By embedding these capabilities into its provision, the University Centre is helping to equip learners with the skills to find their futures in a rapidly evolving employment landscape.

The new facilities also support the University Centre Truro & Penwith’s commitment to enabling more learners to access higher-level education locally. By expanding provision in Cornwall, students are able to develop in-demand skills without needing to leave the region, helping to retain talent and support local employers.

Dr Emily Myatt, Dean of the University Centre Truro & Penwith said: “This investment is a major step forward for Cornwall. It will allow us to significantly strengthen higher-level skills training in areas that matter most to the Duchy, and ensure local people can access excellent university-level education and progress into high-value careers right here in Cornwall.

“I am incredibly proud of the team who developed these proposals and grateful to the OfS for recognising their value. This funding will make a real difference to our communities, employers and learners across the region.”

Visitors to the opening event were able to explore the AI-Enabled Cyber Labs and digital learning spaces, see demonstrations of industry-standard technologies and speak with lecturers and students about the opportunities available.

The development represents a significant step forward in strengthening Cornwall’s digital skills pipeline, supporting economic growth and creating new opportunities for learners across the region.

Applications for the University Centre Truro & Penwith remain open for September 2026. To discover the qualifications available, arrange a one-to-one tour and apply, visit visit www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/uni