Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that technical colleges in Himachal Pradesh will be incorporating new courses that include artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and mechatronics engineering starting from the upcoming academic session.
During a review meeting of technical institutions, Sukhu emphasised the importance of remaining at the forefront of technological advancements. Therefore, from August, the Himachal state government has decided to introduce a wide range of courses across various institutions. The Government Hydro Engineering College Bilaspur will offer the Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech.) programme in Computer Science and Engineering with a specialisation in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This course has been approved by the All-India Council for Technical Education and the Himachal Pradesh Technical University. Government polytechnic institutions in Rohru and Chamba will now offer specialised courses in computer engineering and mechatronics engineering, respectively.
To meet the evolving demands of the industry, the government will introduce several courses in 17 industrial training institutes across the state. These courses include mechanic electric vehicle, technician mechatronics, fibre to home technician, solar technician (electric), Internet of Things technician, and maintenance mechanic (chemical plant), among others.
Emphasising the significance of practical training, Sukhu highlighted the need for collaboration with leading companies to provide students with real-world exposure. By fostering such partnerships, the government aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. This initiative aims to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in their careers.
The government is committed to ensuring the highest quality of education by deploying qualified staff members who undergo specialised training. The introduction of these new-age courses is aimed at creating a favorable environment for technological advancements in Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, the government seeks to generate abundant employment opportunities for the youth in the state.
The central government is taking proactive measures to introduce AI courses in educational institutes across the country, recognising the transformative potential of the technology in various sectors. In April, OpenGov Asia reported that under Project Jigyasa, a government school in Raipur plans to offer courses in robotics, AI, and machine learning (ML). This initiative will allow approximately 500 students from various grade levels to learn about constructing models and electronic devices. With the establishment of a robotics laboratory, this school joins ten other government schools in India that have embraced the advancements of technology through Project Jigyasa.
Most recently, the Maharashtra government’s Higher and Technical Education Department approved the establishment of a universal AI University in Karjat, Mumbai. It will provide a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes focused on AI. The university is the first of its kind in India, offering degrees and specialised courses specifically in the field.
The university will primarily provide a curriculum that is multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary, incorporating subjects from five different disciplines. It will offer advanced education and training in AI, ML, and data science, equipping students with the latest knowledge and skills. Additionally, it will feature state-of-the-art student infrastructure, including facilities such as the Quantum Computing AI Lab, Internet of Things Lab, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality Lab, and a global trading room. It will also offer inventive courses in liberal arts and humanities, law, global affairs and diplomacy, environment and sustainability, and sports sciences. The university plans to educate students through 80% experiential learning while integrating AI across all programmes.
