Mangaluru: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC) has inaugurated the Intel® Unnati Artificial Intelligence Lab and commenced a five-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Machine Learning and Deep Learning using Intel Unnati AI Tools and Frameworks, marking a significant step towards strengthening artificial intelligence education and research.
The state-of-the-art AI laboratory has been established in the Department of Intelligent Computing and Business Systems (ICBS), which offers B.E. programmes in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) and Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science).
AI laboratory inaugurated
The laboratory was inaugurated by Mr. Govind Agarwala, National Manager, Intel India Pvt. Ltd., and Mr. Ravikumar J., Associate Director, Acer India Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru. Mr. Harshan P. H., Manager – Sales (Karnataka and Kerala), Acer India Pvt. Ltd., attended the programme as the Guest of Honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Govind Agarwala highlighted Intel’s student-centric initiatives, certification opportunities, and avenues for participation in global artificial intelligence competitions. He encouraged students and faculty members to utilise the Intel Unnati ecosystem to develop innovative AI solutions for real-world applications.
Addressing the gathering, Ravikumar J. emphasised the importance of advanced AI infrastructure in engineering education and said Acer’s computing platforms would support practical learning, research, and innovation. He described the newly established laboratory as an important step towards preparing industry-ready engineers with contemporary AI skills.
SJEC becomes first in Dakshina Kannada
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, Director of SJEC, said the establishment of the Intel Unnati AI Lab makes St Joseph Engineering College the first engineering institution in Dakshina Kannada district to host such a facility.
He said the laboratory would serve as a centre for innovation, enabling students and researchers to apply artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges through experiential learning and interdisciplinary research.
Faculty training in AI tools and frameworks
The inaugural programme also marked the beginning of the five-day Faculty Development Programme, which has brought together faculty members from various institutions for hands-on training in Intel’s AI tools, frameworks, and hardware platforms.
The programme aims to strengthen AI education by equipping educators with the latest industry-oriented knowledge and practical skills in machine learning and deep learning.
The event began with the inauguration of the laboratory, followed by an invocation, the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, and addresses by the dignitaries.
Dr. Shreeranga Bhat, Dean (R&D) and In-charge Principal, welcomed the gathering, while Dr. Harivinod N., Professor and Head of the Department of Intelligent Computing and Business Systems, proposed the vote of thanks.
