MIT Bengaluru Launches AI Lab with IBM to Democratize Access to AI

The Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru has launched an AI Lab in collaboration with IBM, aiming to democratize access to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and foster innovation. The Centre, powered by advanced GPU-enabled computing infrastructure, will support cutting-edge research in various fields, including machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision.

The lab will provide world-class computational resources to develop next-generation AI solutions, simultaneously supporting 30 high-performance computing workloads. It will also serve as a collaborative platform for academia and industry, enabling projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programs, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation, and collaborative technology development.

IBM SkillsBuild, IBM's free technology education program, will be used to establish an AI Learning Initiative at MIT BLRU. The initiative will offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, digital credentials, mentorship from faculty and student volunteers, and access to advanced computing infrastructure.

Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor of MAHE Bengaluru, stated that AI must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India and South Asia, said India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, requiring stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by reaching students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, equipping learners with industry-relevant skills for the AI-driven economy. The Centre is expected to catalyze transformative research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent development in Karnataka's higher education and innovation ecosystem.