LJMU launches AI academy to boost staff skills, save time

Liverpool John Moores University has launched an AI Academy for 134 staff, with training delivered by upskilling provider Multiverse. The cohort includes academics and professional services staff from across the institution.

The programme will focus on practical use of AI tools in day-to-day work. The university expects it to cut time spent on manual administrative tasks and standardise responsible AI use across teams.

Staff training

Participants will take a range of Multiverse programmes, including Level 3 AI-Powered Productivity, which covers the use of generative AI tools in routine tasks. The course references tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot and Gemini.

Other options include AI for Business Value and an AI and Machine Learning Fellowship. These strands cover responsible AI use, process change, and using data for operational decision-making. A Level 5 AI Strategy and Leadership programme will also run as part of the offering.

The university projects an average time saving of 4.5 hours a week per learner, driven by streamlined reporting and automated repetitive workflows. It cited note-taking, triage, and document preparation as examples.

The university said this would allow staff to spend more time on student support, teaching, research, and writing. Higher education institutions across the UK have been testing similar approaches as they face continued pressure on costs and workloads.

Responsible use

Alongside productivity, the academy emphasises consistent and responsible use of AI tools. Universities have faced questions about staff and student use, the quality of outputs, and handling personal data.

In administrative settings, AI tools are often framed as a way to reduce routine work and improve documentation consistency. Introducing new tools also raises practical issues around governance, procurement, and training needs. The academy model aims to bring multiple roles under a single training approach.

Data handling is also a priority. Universities manage large volumes of student, research, and operational information, and using AI in that context raises questions about access controls, retention, and appropriate use. The university said the academy will build an institution-wide approach in this area.

Multiverse footprint

Multiverse said it has trained more than 20,000 apprentices in AI, data, and digital skills since 2016. It works with more than 1,500 companies, offering on-the-job learning programmes for people at different career stages.

The company positions its model around AI and technology adoption within organisations. In higher education, external training partners have become more common as universities look for standardised programmes and faster rollout across diverse teams.

For universities, the link between technology adoption and staff workload has become a central operational issue. Administrative load, compliance requirements, and reporting demands often sit alongside teaching and research pressures, prompting more discussion of time savings and productivity amid funding constraints.

Professor Mark Power, Vice-Chancellor at Liverpool John Moores University, said: "Our partnership with Multiverse is the key to building confidence in our staff and refocusing time and resources on what matters most - our students.

"Our priority is delivering outstanding teaching and learning to support our students in achieving their ambitions and aspirations. Every one of our staff is crucial to that aim, and it's important that we can realise the benefits of AI across the institution. I look forward to seeing how our AI pioneers progress and apply their knowledge during the course of this programme."

Gary Eimerman, Chief Learning Officer at Multiverse, said: "We're proud to be partnering with an institution that is placing people and resources at the centre of its approach to AI. Liverpool John Moores University plays a crucial role in supporting students, staff and communities across the city and we're excited to help teams to develop the skills and confidence that enable them to work more efficiently."