IIT Mandi AI Minor Degree Introduced at Swarrnim University
Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University Teams Up with Imarticus Learning to Bring IIT Mandi AI Minor Degree to Engineering Students
Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University (SSIU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Imarticus Learning Pvt. Ltd. to introduce a Minor Degree in Artificial Intelligence from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi for eligible engineering students. The programme is expected to begin as an additional academic option alongside students’ regular engineering courses, giving them access to specialised training in one of the fastest-growing areas of technology.
The agreement allows eligible students to pursue a 24-credit Minor Degree in Artificial Intelligence while continuing their undergraduate engineering studies. The course includes subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI, Data Engineering, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models. These technologies have become increasingly important as businesses, governments and research organisations adopt AI tools across sectors including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education, agriculture and public services.
Under the arrangement, IIT Mandi will prepare the academic curriculum, teach the programme through its faculty members, conduct assessments and provide laboratory immersion opportunities. Imarticus Learning, which serves as the programme’s implementation and EdTech partner, will manage technology-enabled learning support. Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University will be responsible for integrating the programme into its academic system, coordinating admissions and overseeing its delivery on campus.
Speaking about the collaboration, Dr Hiren Kadikar, Registrar of Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University, said, “Artificial Intelligence is transforming every industry, and our students must gain exposure to globally relevant academic programmes. This collaboration reflects our commitment to preparing students with future-ready skills and enhancing their career prospects in emerging technologies.”
Artificial Intelligence has moved from being a specialist research subject to a technology that affects everyday life. AI systems are now used to recommend online content, detect financial fraud, improve medical diagnosis, assist in software development and support scientific research. The rapid spread of Generative AI during the past few years has further increased demand for engineers who understand advanced machine learning models and can build reliable AI applications.
India has made AI one of its strategic priorities. The Central Government has launched the IndiaAI Mission to strengthen computing infrastructure, encourage AI research and improve access to high-quality datasets. Educational institutions have also been encouraged to update engineering curricula, so graduates are prepared for changing industry requirements. As a result, universities across the country are adding AI-related courses, specialised degrees and industry partnerships to meet growing demand.
IIT Mandi has emerged as one of the country’s active centres for Artificial Intelligence research and higher education. The institute has developed specialised academic programmes covering machine learning, robotics, intelligent systems and data science. Collaborations with universities and industry partners allow its academic expertise to reach students beyond its own campus through structured programmes such as this Minor Degree.
Imarticus Learning has expanded its presence in professional education by working with universities and higher education institutions to deliver programmes in technology, finance, analytics and management. Such partnerships have become more common as universities seek external expertise to introduce specialised courses without developing every component independently.
The demand for AI professionals continues to grow across India and internationally. Industry reports have consistently indicated that employers are looking for graduates with practical skills in data analysis, machine learning and software development rather than only classroom knowledge. Organisations increasingly expect engineering graduates to understand modern AI tools alongside traditional programming and engineering fundamentals.
Industry experts have pointed out that employers now value practical experience with AI models, data processing and real-world problem solving. Laboratory sessions, project-based learning and exposure to industry tools are therefore becoming important parts of engineering education. Programmes developed jointly by universities and technology partners attempt to address this gap by combining academic teaching with practical training.
For students, the new Minor Degree offers an opportunity to earn an additional academic qualification without interrupting their existing engineering studies. Completing a recognised AI programme alongside a core engineering degree may strengthen applications for higher education and employment, particularly in sectors where AI knowledge is becoming a standard requirement.
The collaboration also reflects a wider shift in Indian higher education towards multidisciplinary learning. The National Education Policy 2020 encourages universities to offer flexible academic pathways, interdisciplinary courses and multiple learning opportunities so that students can develop broader skills during their degree programmes. Minor Degree programmes fit within this approach by allowing students to study an additional subject without changing their main discipline.
Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University, based in Gandhinagar, has increasingly focused on entrepreneurship, technology and industry-linked education through collaborations with academic and corporate partners. The latest agreement adds Artificial Intelligence to its expanding portfolio of specialised learning opportunities.
According to the university, students completing the programme are expected to receive a nationally recognised academic credential, gain practical learning exposure and improve their employment prospects in technology-driven industries. As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape engineering and business, universities are placing greater emphasis on specialised education that combines academic knowledge with practical skills, making partnerships of this kind an increasingly common feature of higher education in India.
