Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow, has secured approval for a ₹20 crore project under the Government of India's IndiaAI Mission to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence on its campus. The initiative aims to strengthen AI research, improve students' technical skills and support startups developing technology-driven solutions.

The project has been approved by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and will be implemented over four years. The proposed centre will provide students, faculty members, researchers and entrepreneurs with access to advanced computing infrastructure and opportunities to work on AI-based projects.

₹20 Crore Funding to Support AI Research

The project will receive financial support from three partners. MeitY will contribute ₹8 crore, while the Uttar Pradesh government, through UPDESCO, will provide another ₹8 crore. The remaining ₹4 crore will come through the university's industry partner, IBM.

The proposed facility will cover approximately 10,000 square feet and is expected to serve as a hub for research, innovation and skill development. It will provide computing resources to help researchers explore artificial intelligence applications and develop solutions for practical challenges.

 “The proposed centre will span around 10,000 square feet and focus on AI research, innovation and skill development.” - AKTU Vice-Chancellor Professor J. P. Pandey

The facility is expected to expand opportunities for students to gain practical exposure to emerging technologies and work on projects that connect academic learning with industry requirements.

Workshops and Training for Students

The centre will organise workshops, hackathons and training programmes to help students develop practical AI skills. These activities are intended to encourage experimentation, problem-solving and collaboration among students and researchers.

AKTU has more than 750 affiliated institutions and over three lakh students across Uttar Pradesh. Through this extensive academic network, the initiative is expected to create opportunities for learners beyond the university's main campus.

Access to advanced computing facilities could also help students and faculty members undertake research projects that require specialised infrastructure. The centre is expected to encourage collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners, enabling participants to explore emerging applications of artificial intelligence.

Support for AI Startups and Innovation

The project will also focus on supporting AI-based startups. Entrepreneurs are expected to receive mentorship, networking opportunities and assistance in developing their ideas into products with commercial potential.

By connecting researchers, students, startups and industry partners, the centre aims to create an environment where new technologies can move from research to practical applications. Industry collaboration could help innovators identify real-world problems and develop solutions suited to business and societal needs.

The initiative is also expected to contribute to employment opportunities by helping students acquire skills relevant to the evolving technology sector.

Strengthening AI Education in Uttar Pradesh

The proposed Centre of Excellence represents a step towards expanding artificial intelligence research and training within Uttar Pradesh's higher education ecosystem. Its combination of advanced computing infrastructure, practical training and startup support is intended to bring academic learning closer to industry needs.

As AI adoption continues across sectors, initiatives that provide students with research facilities and hands-on experience can help prepare the next generation of technology professionals. Through this four-year project, AKTU aims to strengthen its role in AI education, innovation and entrepreneurship