Technology

New SMU Master’s Programme Prepares Talent for AI-Driven Economic Roles

Published

2 days ago

May 12, 2026

MDSE responds to growing need for professionals who can interpret, not just build, AI models

SINGAPORE, May 11, 2026 /CNW/ — Singapore Management University (SMU) has launched the Master of Data Science in Economics (MDSE), Singapore’s first and only master’s programme that integrates data science and economics, to meet rising global demand for professionals who can apply artificial intelligence (AI) with domain expertise and analytical rigour.

As AI and machine learning (ML) become embedded in business and policy environments, the role of economists is evolving. Beyond building predictive models, there is increasing emphasis on interpreting outputs, assessing uncertainty, and understanding cause-and-effect relationships in complex, real-world data.

The MDSE is designed to address this shift. Through a curriculum that combines econometrics, AI and data science, students develop the ability to work with large-scale, multimodal datasets spanning numerical, textual and visual data, and to translate insights into decisions that carry economic and organisational impact.

“Globally, demand continues to grow for professionals with advanced skills in AI, machine learning and data science. At the same time, companies increasingly recognise the value of domain knowledge in economics,” said Daniel Preve, Associate Professor of Economics (Education) and Programme Director, MDSE.

“While many data science programmes emphasise predictive modelling and deployment, the MDSE places additional focus on causal inference and predictive uncertainty. These capabilities are critical when decisions depend on understanding not just what is likely to happen, but why.”

From predictive models to decision-ready insight

A distinguishing feature of the MDSE is its emphasis on applying data science, AI, ML and econometric methods to support informed, accountable decision-making. Students are equipped to move beyond technical execution by learning to:

Apply econometric, AI and ML models to real-world economic and financial datasetsDistinguish between predictive and explanatory approaches, and understand when each is appropriateEvaluate model limitations and uncertainty in real-world decision contextsCommunicate insights clearly to business and policy stakeholders

Designed with employability in mind

The MDSE is structured to support both early-career entrants and mid-career professionals, with no prior programming experience required at entry. Foundational courses in probability and statistical learning build core competencies, while advanced modules develop applied expertise.

A strong focus on hands-on, industry-relevant training ensures graduates can demonstrate capability in tangible ways:

Experience working with large-scale economic and financial dataProficiency in key programming tools and data systemsExposure to real-world problem statements through applied projectsDevelopment of shareable, interactive portfolios for prospective employers

Through elective courses, students engage with practitioners from Singapore’s fintech and digital economy, gaining exposure to current industry applications and tools, as well as opportunities to earn relevant certifications.

Addressing a structural talent gap

As organisations adopt AI at scale, the differentiator is increasingly the ability to apply and interpret data meaningfully within context. This has created sustained demand for professionals who combine technical fluency with domain expertise.

“AI is changing how work is done, while making human judgement, interpretation and domain knowledge even more important,” said Associate Professor Preve. “Graduates who can work confidently with data, understand its limitations, and apply it to real economic questions will be well-positioned across a wide range of roles.”

The career pathways that are open to MDSE graduates span sectors including financial services, government, consulting and technology, in roles such as data scientist, economic analyst and policy specialist.

SMU’s broader push in applied AI education

The launch of the MDSE builds on the University’s track record in developing practice-oriented, AI-related postgraduate programmes that respond directly to evolving industry needs.

Recent initiatives include the region’s first technology-focused Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), offered jointly with Fudan University and the Master of Science in Business AI. Together, these programmes reflect SMU’s continued focus in equipping talent with the competencies and life skills to thrive in the evolving workplace.

SMU placed amongst the global top 40 for Business & Management Studies, and notched a strong 52nd spot for Economics & Econometrics, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.

In support of accessibility, the University offers a comprehensive range of scholarships and financial support schemes for eligible MDSE students.

Applications for the inaugural August 2026 MDSE intake are now open. Find out more here.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-smu-masters-programme-prepares-talent-for-ai-driven-economic-roles-302768954.html

SOURCE Singapore Management University (SMU)

Technology

Asian Hall of Fame Heritage Gala Highlights Impactful Legacy

Published

10 hours ago

May 13, 2026

Benefit supported Women In Tech, Entertainment, Science & Sports Scholars

LOS ANGELES, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global ambassador Asian Hall of Fame highlighted positive messages of interracial synergy with its Heritage Gala on May 1, 2026 at the iconic Biltmore Los Angeles. CBS LA Anchor Suzie Suh served as Master of Ceremonies of the festive Asian Heritage Month celebration brought to life by vibrant heritage costumes representing Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The intergenerational benefit funded Women In Tech, Entertainment, Science & Sports (WinTESS) scholarships for 103 applicants from all racial backgrounds.

Guests from California, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, and New York applauded the Class of 2026 Official Announcement, including Asian Hall of Fame’s first-ever Major League Baseball Inductee Hideo Nomo, nominated by the Los Angeles Dodgers, and DTLA muralist Robert Vargas as Goodwill Ambassador.

Dedicated San Marino philanthropist and Board of Governors Chairwoman Melinda Rogers was honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year, with a moving speech presented by her younger brother William Rogers. Chairwoman Rogers highlighted the endearing impact of family, and delighted audiences with her custom Korean hanbok, designed alongside Anna Kim at her Koreatown boutique.

Distinguished philanthropist Loida Nicolas Lewis (Inductee 2007) shared an inspiring fireside chat with stories of family legacy and community empowerment. Guests received commemorative autographed memoirs, and complimentary gifts from Nan Yang Delight and SUP. Inductees in attendance were Marc Anthony Nicolas, Kristen Lui, incoming Inductees Kitty Lo and Maggie Tseng, Official Design Partner of the 2026 Season.

The dramatic Heritage Costume Show, sponsored by Meridien Vacation Homes, presented pageant holders including a Rose Pageant Princess, Miss Asia USA, Miss Teen Latina Global, Hi-Teen USA, Miss International U.S. Virgin Islands, Miss Taiwanese American, and Mrs. Asia Glamour.

Maki Mae performed from her upcoming album release with pianist Jason Lo and cellist Ryan Phipps. Walter Nishinaka and Los Angeles Taiko Collective kicked off raffle drawings, including an 18-carat gold ring donated by long-standing supporter Vartan Kazanjian, owner of Estate Jewelers of South Pasadena.

ABOUT ASIAN HALL OF FAME
Established in 2004, Asian Hall of Fame strengthens interracial synergy by advancing mainstream recognition of Asian and Native legacy. Inductees include Connie Chung, Kristi Yamaguchi, Margaret Cho, amongst others. Contact: press@asianhalloffame.org, (626) 600-9418, www.asianhalloffame.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/asian-hall-of-fame-heritage-gala-highlights-impactful-legacy-302771594.html

SOURCE Asian Hall of Fame

Technology

Notice of Data Privacy Incident

Published

10 hours ago

May 13, 2026

MOUNT STERLING, Ill., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Brown County

Brown County, Illinois provides notice of a data privacy incident involving personal information of certain county constituents and staff.

What Happened? On April 3, 2025, we received alerts of unusual activity in one of our email accounts. We launched an immediate investigation, and retained independent cyber incident response specialists to assist. The investigation determined that two email accounts experienced unauthorized access. We have no evidence of fraud or identity theft from this incident.

What Information Was Involved. The information involved varied by individual, and may have included a first and last name along with a Social Security number, driver’s license number, government issued identification number, medical information, or health insurance information.

What We Are Doing. In addition to the above, we are offering complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services to individuals whose Social Security numbers were believed to be involved.

What You Can Do. Generally, it is best practice to remain vigilant for incidents of identity theft and fraud from any source by reviewing your account statements and credit reports for suspicious activity and errors. If you discover any suspicious or unusual activity, promptly contact your financial institution or service provider.

Individuals are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus, TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. To order a free credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.

Individuals may further learn about identity theft, fraud alerts, credit freezes, and the steps to take to protect personal information by contacting the credit reporting bureaus, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or state Attorneys General. The FTC encourages those who discover that their information has been misused to file a complaint with them. It may be reached at 600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20580; www.identitytheft.gov; 1-877-ID-THEFT (1-877-438-4338); and TTY: 1-866-653-4261.

For More Information, you may contact us at 1-800-405-6108, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST for further assistance.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/notice-of-data-privacy-incident-302771596.html

SOURCE Kennedys CMK LLP

Technology

SharkNinja Set to Join S&P MidCap 400; Flowers Foods and F&G Annuities & Life to Join S&P SmallCap 600

Published

10 hours ago

May 13, 2026

NEW YORK, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — S&P Dow Jones Indices will make the following changes to the S&P MidCap 400, S&P SmallCap 600:

SharkNinja (NYSE: SN) will replace Flowers Foods Inc. (NYSE: FLO) in the S&P MidCap 400, and Flowers Foods will replace CSG Systems Intl Inc. (NASD: CSGS) in the S&P SmallCap 600 effective prior to the opening of trading on Monday, May 18. NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) is acquiring CSG Systems Intl in a deal expected to close soon, pending final closing conditions.F&G Annuities & Life Inc. (NYSE: FG) will replace Mister Car Wash Inc. (NASD: MCW) in the S&P SmallCap 600 effective prior to the opening of trading on Tuesday, May 19. Leonard Green & Partners L.P. is acquiring Mister Car Wash in a deal expected to close soon, pending final closing conditions.

Following is a summary of the changes that will take place prior to the open of trading on the effective date:

Effective Date

Index Name

Action

Company Name

Ticker

GICS Sector

May 18, 2026

S&P MidCap 400

Addition

SharkNinja

Consumer Discretionary

May 18, 2026

S&P MidCap 400

Deletion

Flowers Foods

FLO

Consumer Staples

May 18, 2026

S&P SmallCap 600

Addition

Flowers Foods

FLO

Consumer Staples

May 18, 2026

S&P SmallCap 600

Deletion

CSG Systems Intl

CSGS

Industrials

May 19, 2026

S&P SmallCap 600

Addition

F&G Annuities & Life

Financials

May 19, 2026

S&P SmallCap 600

Deletion

Mister Car Wash

MCW

Consumer Discretionary

ABOUT S&P DOW JONES INDICES

S&P Dow Jones Indices is the largest global resource for essential index-based concepts, data and research, and home to iconic financial market indicators, such as the S&P 500® and the Dow Jones Industrial Average®. More assets are invested in products based on our indices than products based on indices from any other provider in the world. Since Charles Dow invented the first index in 1884, S&P DJI has been innovating and developing indices across the spectrum of asset classes helping to define the way investors measure and trade the markets.

S&P Dow Jones Indices is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI), which provides essential intelligence for individuals, companies, and governments to make decisions with confidence. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

S&P Dow Jones Indices
index_services@spglobal.com

Media Inquiries
spdji.comms@spglobal.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sharkninja-set-to-join-sp-midcap-400-flowers-foods-and-fg-annuities–life-to-join-sp-smallcap-600-302771602.html

SOURCE S&P Dow Jones Indices