PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 21: Sona Devi University has achieved a significant milestone in higher and technical education by entering into a landmark partnership with Intel Technology India Pvt. Ltd.
The university is now the first in Jharkhand to sign an MoU with the global tech leader, aiming to strengthen Artificial Intelligence (AI) education and digital skill development for students.
The MoU was signed during the recent AI Impact Festival 2025 in New Delhi, inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla.
The ceremony took place in the presence of senior government officials including Union Secretary S. Krishnan and Additional Secretary Abhishek Singh, alongside Intel Foundation Global Head Sarah Kemp and Intel India’s Santosh Viswanathan.
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The agreement was signed by Shweta Khurana, Senior Director (Asia Pacific & Japan), representing Intel, and Chancellor Prabhakar Singh for Sona Devi University.
The collaboration becomes effective on December 1, 2025 and will continue until November 30, 2027.
This partnership will enable the introduction of AI-focused academic programs, co-branded certifications, digital literacy initiatives, and faculty development efforts—positioning students to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the digital workforce.
This initiative also aligns with the Government of India’s upcoming “AI for All” mission.
A national conference is planned in February 2026 in New Delhi, jointly supported by NITI Aayog, Atal Innovation Mission, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Electronics and IT, bringing together researchers and stakeholders in electronics and digital technologies.
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Key Areas of Collaboration:
* Launch of Intel AI for Future Workforce program to accelerate India’s digital-first transformation.
* Enhanced AI skill training for employability in the digital economy.
* Development of real-world AI projects demonstrating industrial and social impact.
* Support for program implementation, including hosting participation via the university’s website and orientation for officials.
* Capacity-building for trainers and co-branded certification for students.
* Introduction of certificate, diploma, and degree programs in AI at Sona Devi University.
University representatives stated that the collaboration marks a transformative step toward creating technologically empowered youth, preparing them for future innovation and global opportunities.
