MU to set up institute for artificial intelligence

AI is a technology that enables machines to perceive their environment and mimic cognitive functions that humans associate with other human minds, such as learning and problem solving.

The University of Mumbai (MU) will soon set up a research and educational institute for artificial intelligence – a first-of-its-kind institute in India.

The University of Mumbai (MU) will soon set up a research and educational institute for artificial intelligence. (HT FIle)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that enables machines to perceive their environment and mimic cognitive functions that humans associate with other human minds, such as learning and problem solving.

The institute is aimed at finding solutions to social challenges by employing techniques of artificial intelligence and data science. The varsity plans to set up the institute in collaboration with Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence, California. It will be opened at MU’s Vidya Nagari campus in Kalina.

“The project will focus on applying artificial intelligence concepts and technologies to deliver high impact and measurable outcomes in the underprivileged and under-resourced communities,” said Devanand Shinde, acting vice chancellor, MU.

The California-based institute will support MU to train and equip students and researchers to work on the development, deployment and application of advancements in the field of artificial intelligence. “The proposed institute will work with top researchers and innovators from around the globe and will offer fellowships and internships to students,” read a statement from MU.

The institute is proposed to provide financial support and guidance for filing patents and intellectual property rights (IPR) claims.

The institute will also facilitate student exchange programs in collaboration with other premier universities.

The department of computer science at MU will formulate a curriculum and introduce credit-based electives for degree students, a postgraduate programme and a course on research methodology in data science for students of MU and other premier institutes in India.

These programmes will offer practical projects in key areas of societal challenges such as e-governance, health, infrastructure, education, agriculture and financial inclusion.