CU-UP and Microsoft Launch Landmark AI Bootcamp, Ushering in a New Era of Industry-Aligned Learning

Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh (CU-UP), has taken a significant step towards bridging the gap between academia and industry with the successful launch of its first-ever AI Bootcamp in collaboration with Microsoft. The event marked the beginning of a long-term strategic alliance aimed at integrating cutting-edge technologies into mainstream education.

Hosted on CU-UP’s state-of-the-art campus, the bootcamp drew over 300 participants from diverse academic backgrounds such as business, engineering, commerce, and computer applications. The initiative provided students with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence (AI), fostering practical skills aligned with current industry requirements.

More than just a one-time event, the bootcamp signaled the start of a comprehensive partnership between Microsoft and CU-UP. The two institutions formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop industry-integrated programs in AI and Machine Learning (ML). These initiatives are designed to ensure that students are not only academically proficient but also job-ready from day one.

The bootcamp curriculum focused on real-world applications of AI, including Python programming and the deployment of AI technologies. The training aims to equip students with essential 21st-century skills—empowering them to solve problems, innovate, and adapt to evolving technologies.

The program was delivered in collaboration with Microsoft, FITT IIT Delhi, and Chandigarh University – Uttar Pradesh under the umbrella of the ‘Unnati AI’ initiative. Operational support was provided by CU’s Technology Business Incubator (CU-TBI). In line with Microsoft’s commitment to inclusive education, 50% of participants were women, ensuring equitable access to transformative learning opportunities for students from Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Speaking at the event, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor of Chandigarh University and Member of Parliament, emphasized CU’s dedication to bridging the education-industry divide. He highlighted the vision for CU-UP not just as a campus extension, but as a hub for high-impact, industry-led programs in AI, ML, FinTech, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing—many of which are first-of-their-kind initiatives in Uttar Pradesh focused on boosting local youth employability.

Dr. Nikhil Agarwal, Managing Director of FITT at IIT Delhi, commended CU-UP’s world-class infrastructure and innovation capabilities. He noted that this initiative aligns with the national vision for scaled-up, structured AI education, citing a recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella as a key motivator behind the ‘Unnati AI’ program.

Lipika Sharma, representative from Microsoft, reinforced this sentiment, declaring CU-UP as India’s first AI-augmented multidisciplinary campus. She emphasized that while AI won’t replace humans, those who upskill will enjoy a distinct advantage in the workforce. Microsoft’s involvement will ensure students gain meaningful exposure to transformative technologies.

Abhishek Tiwari, Founder of Venture Mozart, applauded CU-UP’s forward-thinking approach in embedding AI into the curriculum. Highlighting AI’s growing influence in industries like content creation, he stressed the need for students to embrace technological disruption to forge entrepreneurial paths and create a sustainable future.

Jai Inder Singh Sandhu, Managing Director of Chandigarh University, expressed ambitious plans for the future. CU has invested over ₹2500 crore to establish its cutting-edge campus along the Kanpur-Lucknow highway. This campus is envisioned as a benchmark for academia-industry collaboration, with five Centres of Excellence being developed and a newly launched CV Raman Scholarship Fund of ₹3 crore to support students in scientific research and development.

These initiatives reflect CU-UP’s unwavering commitment to shaping future-ready professionals through experiential learning, strategic partnerships, and an education model designed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s world.