Higher Education Minister Dr. M.C. Sudhakar launches world-class AI and Green Skills Centre; 30,000 students to be trained over three years
Bengaluru: In a major step toward integrating technology, sustainability and employability in higher education, Karnataka Higher Education Minister Dr. M.C. Sudhakar on Thursday inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Green Skills and Applied Artificial Intelligence for Climate Action at SKSJTI Government College, Bengaluru.
Describing the facility as a transformative milestone, the Minister said the Centre would bring life to the technological ideas, innovations and aspirations of students pursuing technical education in the State.
“This is a world-class facility that will bring life to the technological ideas, innovations and aspirations of technical education students. A new chapter has begun in Karnataka’s higher education ecosystem,” Dr. Sudhakar said.
He emphasised that as part of the government’s commitment to employment-oriented education, institutions are now placing stronger focus on skill development aligned with global industry demands.
30,000 students to be trained in three years
Announcing an ambitious target, the Minister said that 30,000 students will be trained over the next three years, equipping them with globally relevant competencies in Artificial Intelligence, green technologies and climate action.
He noted that the initiative would significantly expand career pathways and enhance access to international employment opportunities for Karnataka’s youth.
Collaboration with Microsoft, MeitY and 1M1B Foundation
The Centre has been established through a collaborative effort involving the 1M1B Foundation, Microsoft and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The initiative aims to build high-quality AI talent in India while enabling students to innovate in areas such as green energy, environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Bengaluru hosts the first such Centre under the initiative, with Microsoft planning to set up similar facilities in five states. Karnataka has been accorded priority in this expansion.
Highlighting the State’s leadership in technology, innovation and human capital, Dr. Sudhakar urged students to leverage the Centre’s infrastructure and mentorship to contribute meaningfully to global environmental sustainability goals.
Dignitaries present
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Somanna Palakand, Global Head, Microsoft; Manju Dasman, Head – Microsoft CSR; Chintamani Padmanabhan, Senior Director, Microsoft; Khushboo G. Choudhary, Secretary, Department of Higher Education; and Manjushree, Commissioner, Department of Technical Education, along with other officials and dignitaries.
