MIT Bengaluru and IBM open new AI lab to make advanced computing accessible to all
Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru, part of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has partnered with IBM to launch a new artificial intelligence laboratory on its campus. The IBM–MIT AI Lab, also known as the MAHE Intelligence GPU (MIG), is designed to widen access to AI education and research for students and institutions across India.
The lab is equipped with a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility powered by advanced GPU-enabled infrastructure. It will support research in fields such as machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, and intelligent systems. The facility can run 30 high-performance computing workloads simultaneously, giving researchers and students the tools to develop next-generation AI solutions.
Beyond research, the lab is intended to serve as a collaborative hub connecting academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programmes, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation, and joint technology development. Through IBM SkillsBuild, a free technology education programme, MIT Bengaluru will also offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, and hands-on training in AI and machine learning.
The lab was inaugurated by Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice-Chancellor of MAHE Bengaluru, and Nisha Gopinath, Vice-President of Human Resources at IBM India and South Asia. Speaking at the event, Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for Home, IT & BT, and e-Governance, said the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth.
Dr. Veeraraghavan emphasised that AI must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. “AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future,” he said.
Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India and South Asia, noted India’s position in the global AI landscape. “India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation,” he said.
The initiative comes at a time when demand for AI skills is rising across sectors, and institutions are seeking ways to bridge the digital divide. By offering free or low-cost access to powerful computing resources and training, the lab aims to help students and researchers from diverse backgrounds participate in AI research and innovation. It also aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen India’s technology education ecosystem and prepare a future workforce equipped for an increasingly digital economy.
