Bengaluru, India – Students and researchers at MIT Bengaluru will now have access to cutting-edge computing facilities and comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) training, following the inauguration of a new AI lab in collaboration with IBM. The IBM–MIT AI Lab, officially named the MAHE Intelligence GPU (MIG), was launched at the MIT Bengaluru campus on August 10.
The MIG lab is designed to be a central hub for AI computing resources, advanced research facilities, and digital skilling opportunities, serving students, researchers, and institutions across India. Equipped with GPU-powered infrastructure, the facility can simultaneously support 30 high-performance computing workloads.
Advancing AI Research and Development
The new lab will foster research in critical AI domains, including machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, intelligent systems, and data analytics. Faculty members and researchers from MIT Bengaluru will utilize the facility for advanced AI research and to pursue collaborative projects with industry partners.
Dr. Iven Jose, Director of MIT Bengaluru, emphasized the lab's role in strengthening the university's AI research ecosystem. "MIG provides our students and researchers with the computing power needed to solve complex challenges and accelerate AI innovation. By integrating advanced infrastructure with industry collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem that nurtures research excellence, hands-on learning, and industry-ready talent," he stated.
Free AI Training and Digital Credentials via IBM SkillsBuild
A key component of this initiative is an AI Learning Initiative delivered through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM's free technology education program. This program will offer students access to AI awareness workshops, bootcamps, and hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Participants will also earn valuable IBM SkillsBuild digital credentials, receive mentorship from MIT Bengaluru faculty and student volunteers, and gain access to the lab's advanced computing facilities.
The program specifically targets students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, aiming to democratize access to AI skills and technology that might otherwise be out of reach. Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, highlighted this commitment: "Artificial Intelligence must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future."
Fostering Industry Collaboration and Talent Development
Beyond research and training, the AI lab will serve as a platform for robust collaboration between academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, research programs, faculty development, student innovation, hackathons, internships, and startup incubation. Students will gain invaluable opportunities to participate in real-world industry projects, enhancing their practical skills and career readiness.
Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia, underscored the importance of such partnerships. "India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation. Realising this potential requires stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry," said Patel. He added that IBM's collaboration with MIT Bengaluru reflects its commitment to democratizing access to emerging technologies and enterprise-grade computing.
Priyank Kharge, Karnataka's Cabinet Minister for Home, IT & BT, e-Governance, commended the initiative, noting, "This collaboration highlights the power of academia-industry partnerships in strengthening Karnataka's AI ecosystem. By providing access to advanced AI infrastructure, hands-on learning, and resources, the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth."
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan and Nisha Gopinath, Vice President, Human Resources, IBM India and South Asia, alongside senior leaders from IBM and MAHE, faculty members, researchers, students, and industry representatives, marking a significant step towards bolstering AI research and skill development in the region.