Mangaluru: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Mangaluru, achieved a significant milestone in advancing artificial intelligence education and research with the inauguration of the Intel® Unnati Artificial Intelligence Lab and the commencement of a five-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Machine Learning and Deep Learning using Intel Unnati AI Tools and Frameworks on Monday.
The state-of-the-art AI Lab has been established in the Department of Intelligent Computing and Business Systems (ICBS), which offers B.E. programmes in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AIML) and Computer Science & Engineering (Data Science).The laboratory was inaugurated by Govind Agarwala, National Manager, Intel India Pvt. Ltd., and Ravikumar J., Associate Director, Acer India Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, Harshan P. H., Manager – Sales (Karnataka & Kerala), Acer India Pvt. Ltd., also graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Govind Agarwala highlighted Intel’s student-centric initiatives, opportunities for Intel certifications, and avenues for participation in global AI competitions. He encouraged students and faculty to leverage the Intel Unnati ecosystem to develop innovative AI solutions with real-world impact.
Ravikumar J. emphasised the importance of advanced AI infrastructure in modern engineering education and explained how Acer’s cutting-edge computing platforms would support hands-on learning, research, and innovation. He described the newly established laboratory as a significant step towards preparing future-ready engineers equipped with industry-relevant skills.
In his presidential address, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Prakash Dsouza, Director, SJEC, lauded the institution’s vision in establishing the Intel Unnati AI Lab, making SJEC the first engineering college in Dakshina Kannada district to host such a facility. He noted that the laboratory would serve as a catalyst for innovation, enabling students and researchers to apply artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges through experiential learning and interdisciplinary research.
The programme commenced with the inauguration of the laboratory, followed by an invocation, the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, and addresses by the dignitaries. The welcome address was delivered by Dr Shreeranga Bhat, Dean (R&D) and In-charge Principal, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Dr Harivinod N., Professor and Head, Department of Intelligent Computing and Business Systems.
The inaugural event also marked the beginning of the five-day Faculty Development Programme, which has brought together faculty members from various institutions to receive 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.