The future of artificial intelligence (AI) education in Karnataka took a monumental leap forward on August 26, 2025. In a landmark event, the Manipal Skill Development Centre (MSDC), under the esteemed Dr. T. M. A. Pai Foundation, unveiled a dual initiative set to revolutionize how students engage with technology: the inauguration of a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the launch of the innovative “AI on Wheels” program.

This powerful combination marks a decisive step towards making cutting-edge AI learning accessible, inclusive, and aligned with the industry demands of tomorrow.

The Pillars of Innovation: Two Sides of a Transformative Vision

This initiative is uniquely designed to cater to both urban and rural learners, ensuring no student is left behind in the AI revolution.

1. The AI Centre of Excellence: A Hub of Cutting-Edge Learning
Nestled at the MSDC campus in Manipal, the new AI Centre of Excellence is not just a laboratory; it’s a nexus of innovation. This world-class facility is equipped with:

• Modern AI Labs: Featuring high-performance computing systems and advanced AI toolkits.
• Digital Classrooms: Interactive learning environments for immersive education.
• Industry Collaboration Spaces: Designed to foster partnerships and applied research in machine learning, robotics, and data science.

The centre is poised to become the premier destination for AI training in Karnataka, creating a talent pipeline ready to tackle global challenges.

2. AI on Wheels: Bringing the Lab to the Learner
Understanding that brilliance isn’t confined to cities, MSDC, in partnership with Vision Digital India (VDI), launched “AI on Wheels.” This is a first-of-its-kind mobile AI laboratory built on a CNG-powered vehicle, featuring:

• Portable AI kits and hands-on learning modules.
• A fully functional smart classroom with a trainer’s console.
• A mission to travel directly to schools in rural and semi-urban Karnataka.

This initiative is a powerful tool for bridging the educational divide, ensuring students in remote areas gain exposure to the same quality of education as their urban counterparts.

Key Voices: Leadership on the Importance of AI Skilling

The inauguration was graced by luminaries who underscored the national importance of this initiative.

• Prof. (Dr.) T. G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, emphasized the critical need for skill development in an AI-driven world, stating that AI is permeating every sector from “agriculture to space.”
• Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, highlighted the commitment to lifelong learning and the vital inclusion of rural communities and girls in the tech mainstream.
• Dr. Hari Krishna Maram, Founder of Vision Digital India, shared the visionary journey of creating ‘AI on Wheels,’ affirming the mission to make India an “AI-learning nation.”

Why This Matters for Karnataka and Beyond

The implications of this dual launch are profound:

• Future-Ready Workforce: Equips students with in-demand skills for the jobs of the future.
• Democratizing Education: “AI on Wheels” directly tackles the barriers of geography and economic constraints.
• Fostering Innovation: The Centre of Excellence will catalyze research tailored to local and global needs, driving technological advancement.
• Empowering Underrepresented Groups: Focuses on inspiring girls and rural youth to pursue careers in STEM.

The Road Ahead

The inauguration is just the beginning. The sustained success of this vision will depend on continuous updates to the curriculum, consistent engagement with remote schools, and rigorous tracking of student outcomes. This initiative sets a powerful precedent for other states to follow, proving that with innovation and intent, quality education can reach every corner of the country.