Campus Times | Lucknow

In a major boost to future focused education and workforce development, Lucknow University has inaugurated Uttar Pradesh first Centre for Green Skills & Applied AI, marking a significant step towards integrating artificial intelligence with sustainability driven learning.

The centre has been established through a strategic collaboration between 1M1B (One Million for One Billion) Foundation, Microsoft, MeitY Startup Hub, and the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The initiative is designed to prepare students for emerging careers in the green economy by combining applied AI with practical sustainability solutions.

A new hub for future skills

The newly launched centre will offer students hands on learning in applied artificial intelligence and green technologies, enabling them to develop solutions for real world challenges such as climate change, sustainable development and resource management. The programme is aligned with Indias growing demand for a workforce equipped with technology and environmental expertise.

The facility was inaugurated by Lucknow University Vice Chancellor Prof. J.P. Saini in the presence of senior university officials, faculty members and industry representatives. Among those present were 1M1B founder & CEO Manav Subodh, Microsoft CSR programme manager Anisha Awachan, dean of science Prof. Sheela Mishra, dean of student welfare Prof. Amita Kanaujia, and HOD of Computer Science Prof. Puneet Mishra.

Part of a national expansion plan

Lucknow becomes the third city to host the Centre for Green Skills & Applied AI after Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Two additional centres are planned in Noida and Shillong, creating a nationwide network focused on developing future ready talent.

The initiative targets training 100,000 young people by 2030, with an ecosystem expected to facilitate over 50,000 employment opportunities, including jobs, internships, apprenticeships and entrepreneurship support.

During the first year alone, the programme aims to train 20,000 learners across India, connect 10,000 participants with career opportunities, and engage more than 5,000 youth in Lucknow through the newly established centre.

Focus on industry relevant learning

Unlike conventional classroom based training programmes, the centre has been conceived as a workforce development and innovation hub. Students will gain practical exposure to sectors such as solar energy, electric vehicles (EVs), wind energy and applied AI, while working on technology driven solutions for climate resilience, agriculture and sustainable development.

The curriculum has been designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, helping students build employable skills in rapidly expanding sectors. Speaking at the launch, Vice Chancellor Prof. J.P. Saini said that the initiative will provide students with practical exposure to emerging technologies while enhancing their global employability and encouraging socially responsible innovation.