The Telangana government has signed a major agreement with Australia’s Deakin University to set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Artificial Intelligence as part of the upcoming AI University under the state’s “Future City” project. The move is being described as a significant step toward positioning Telangana as a national hub for advanced AI research and innovation.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Australia’s Minister for International Education, Julian Hill and Telangana’s IT & Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu. The CoE will be jointly operated by Deakin University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute and the state government.
Purpose & Vision
The primary goal of the AI CoE is to build a Globally competitive, highly skilled talent pool capable of meeting the rapidly rising demand for AI skills in India and abroad. Officials said the centre will not focus only on academic learning, but will emphasize real world Applications, Research, Product development and Hands on innovation.
Focus Areas of the AI CoE
The new centre will work on AI-driven solutions across multiple key sectors, including:
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
- Education
- Agriculture
- Life Sciences
- Governance
- Critical minerals and rare earth sectors
- Industrial and urban innovation
The facility will support advanced research projects, industry partnerships and next generation skill development programmes for students professionals and startups.
Part of Telangana’s Larger Vision
The collaboration aligns with the state’s long term plan to make Telangana a Gateway for Digital India and a leading destination for global technology institutions. The government has been working to attract international universities and research bodies to strengthen the local innovation ecosystem.
Earlier this year, Telangana and Deakin University had signed a Letter of Intent to explore AI innovation opportunities aimed at public good digital governance and economic growth. The new MoU formalizes that vision and launches concrete steps to build AI research capabilities within the state.
Expected Impact
Officials say the CoE will:
- Boost advanced AI research
- Support emerging startups
- Promote AI-based solutions for real life challenges
- Create high quality jobs
- Strengthen Telangana’s role as an innovation driven state
The AI University and the CoE will be located within the planned Future City which aims to bring together Modern urban infrastructure, Digital innovation and Global educational partnerships.
