In a landmark move for higher education in India, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU) has established the country’s first dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) institute within its Pune-based university. The Symbiosis Centre for Applied Artificial Intelligence (SCAAI), based in Pune, aims to integrate AI into academic curricula, research, and industry collaborations, positioning SIU at the forefront of AI education and innovation.
SCAAI is structured around three primary verticals: AI Research, AI Applications, and AI Education. The AI Research division focuses on developing novel methodologies in machine learning, deep learning, and probabilistic reasoning. The AI Applications wing is dedicated to creating solutions in healthcare, natural language processing, and robotics, translating research into practical innovations. Meanwhile, the AI Education vertical offers specialized training and certification programs, catering to both academic and industry professionals.
SCAAI will also be offering two main programmes, those being a B.Sc. (Artificial Intelligence) Honours programme and a B.B.A (Artificial Intelligence) Honours. The bachelor’s in science will focus on five different sectors and the application of AI in those industries. Those sectors are health sciences, sports sciences, agriculture, data science, and cybersecurity. The bachelor’s in business administration will instead focus on how AI can be used to make tasks easier in different parts of a business, such as finance, marketing, global supply chains, media, and human resource management. Another thing to note is that students can mix and match majors and minors from the two programmes, leading to a more personalised education.
In February 2024, SIU partnered with the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Association of African Universities, and Obreal Global to promote AI-driven solutions addressing global challenges. This initiative funds 25 student-led projects annually over five years, with additional support for ten standout projects. The collaboration provides mentorship and financial assistance, empowering students to develop innovative solutions with real-world impact.
Symbiosis International University’s commitment to AI excellence has garnered significant recognition. In December 2024, SIU was honored as the “AI Pioneer” at the LinkedIn Talent Awards, acknowledging its innovative use of AI in academia. The university’s proactive integration of AI into its curricula, including specialized B.Tech and M.Tech programs in AI and Machine Learning, reflects its dedication to preparing students for the evolving job market.
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With the establishment of SCAAI, Symbiosis International University sets a precedent for integrating AI into higher education in India. The institute’s multifaceted approach—encompassing research, application, and education—positions it as a leader in cultivating AI talent and fostering innovation, aligning with India’s broader goals of technological advancement and global competitiveness.
