Shoolini University Signs MoU with IIT Ropar to Launch a Joint Interdisciplinary Program in Artificial Intelligence.

• The collaboration establishes a state-of-the-art Cyber Physical System Lab and introduces a pioneering interdisciplinary AI programme.
• This strategic partnership aims to advance translational research, technology transfer, and skill development, fostering an ecosystem of interdisciplinary learning and innovation.

Solan: Strengthening its commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation, Shoolini University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AWaDH (Technology Innovation Hub), Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, to introduce a joint Minor Programme in Artificial Intelligence. This strategic partnership aims to advance translational research, technology transfer, and skill development, fostering an ecosystem of interdisciplinary learning and innovation.

The MoU was formally signed by Prof. Prem Kumar Khosla, Chancellor of Shoolini University, and Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Dean of Research and Development, Project Director at IIT Ropar (iHub – AWaDH). Under this agreement, both institutions will collaborate on establishing a Cyber Physical System Laboratory (CPS Lab.), a hub dedicated to pioneering research and technological advancements across multiple disciplines.

To support the academic and research ambitions of this initiative, the Cyber Physical System Lab will serve two core purposes. Firstly, it will facilitate industry-specific research addressing critical societal needs. Secondly, it will function as a skill development hub, offering experiential learning in technologies like AI, AR-VR, Data Science, Generative AI, Robotics, and Multi-Sensory Systems to students from 11th grade to postgraduate levels.

A key highlight of this partnership is the launch of a joint Minor Programme in Artificial Intelligence + X, comprising 15 credits. Developed with a ‘Learning by Practice’ methodology, the programme will be conducted through the CPS Lab. and will award a joint certification from Shoolini University and IIT Ropar. The ‘X’ component of the programme signifies its interdisciplinary nature, allowing students to integrate AI with specialized fields such as Agriculture, Biotechnology, and Management, thereby expanding its applicability across diverse domains.

Prof P K Khosla, founder and chancellor, Shoolini University, said the MoU with AWaDH (Technology Innovation Hub), Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, would go a long way in strengthening cutting-edge research. He said, “both the institutions were young and share the hunger for innovation and excellence”.

Prof. Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Project Director iHub-AWaDH & Dean R&D, IIT Ropar, said, “We are committed to ensuring that every student can learn cutting-edge technologies from the best faculty, all at an affordable cost. Recognizing the challenges colleges face in evolving their curricula, especially with rapidly advancing technologies, we have developed this course in collaboration with NSDC and Masai. The ‘Minor in AI’ program ensures that the curriculum remains dynamic and up to date, with top experts teaching the content. This is just the beginning; we plan to introduce many more such courses in the future to continue expanding educational opportunities for all.”

This joint initiative not only reflects India’s commitment to becoming a global AI leader but also enhances the career prospects of participating students. The practical approach embedded in the programme will enable learners to specialize in their chosen disciplines while integrating AI skills, ultimately increasing their job readiness and employability in emerging sectors.