Bhubaneswar: Nalanda Institute of Technology (NIT), Bhubaneswar, has inaugurated Odisha’s first HCL GUVI AI Hub, marking an important step towards strengthening Artificial Intelligence education, innovation, research and industry-oriented learning among students.
The AI Hub was inaugurated in the presence of Shri Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, Chief Executive Officer, Odisha Skill Development Project-II, World Skill Center, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Dr. Shanti Swarup Rath was present as the Distinguished Guest and Special Invitee, while Shri Hitesh Nayak, Senior Director–AI, Logile Inc., attended as the Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra said, “Artificial Intelligence is becoming an important part of the future of education, industry and employment. Initiatives like this AI Hub will give students an opportunity to learn new technologies, develop practical skills and prepare themselves for the changing requirements of the industry.”
Shri Hitesh Nayak said, “The objective should be to move students beyond simply using AI tools. They should understand how AI works, develop solutions and apply the technology to real-world problems. A platform like this can help students build practical skills through projects, experimentation and industry interaction.”
Representing HCL GUVI, Mr. Deepak Saravanan, AVP and National Head–AI Labs, said, “Through the HCL GUVI AI Hub, we aim to create a structured learning environment where students can learn, experiment and build with AI. The focus will be on practical learning, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering, AI Coding and automation, along with industry-oriented projects.”
Mrs. Sumita Rout, Operations State Head, HCL GUVI, said, “The success of an AI ecosystem depends not only on student learning but also on faculty development and continuous engagement. We look forward to working closely with Nalanda Institute of Technology to support students and faculty in building strong AI capabilities.”
The AI Hub will provide students with structured learning and hands-on exposure to Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering, AI Coding, Automation and other emerging technologies. Students will get opportunities to work on assignments, mini-projects and capstone projects and participate in industry interactions.
The initiative will also support faculty development, interdisciplinary projects, research, innovation, internships, entrepreneurship and placement preparation. It aims to help students move from being users of AI tools to becoming creators and developers of AI-based solutions.
Shri Malaya Kumar Padhi, Vice-Chairman, Nalanda Institute of Technology, said, “The establishment of the HCL GUVI AI Hub is an important step in our efforts to provide students with future-ready education. We want our students to gain both academic knowledge and practical skills so that they can confidently meet the requirements of the technology-driven industry.”
Prof. Nanigopal Das, Director, Nalanda Institute of Technology, said, “AI is transforming every field, and it is important for educational institutions to prepare students for this transformation. We will encourage students and faculty members from different disciplines to use the AI Hub for learning, research, innovation and practical problem-solving.”
During the programme, Student Ambassadors and Assistant Student Ambassadors were recognised with certificates and medals for their contribution to the initiative. The guests also interacted with students, Heads of Departments and faculty members and discussed AI learning, faculty development and the implementation of the programme across different departments.
The event was attended by all Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff and students of Nalanda Institute of Technology. The institution said the AI Hub will serve as a common platform for responsible AI learning and for developing technology-based solutions relevant to industry, society and Odisha.