OUTR to set up 2 CoEs for design, AI, robotics by next March

Bhubaneswar: To enhance research capabilities, the Odisha University of Technology and Research (OUTR), Bhubaneswar, is planning to establish two centres of excellence (CoEs), which will be dedicated to design, artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.

The CoEs will be operational by next March,” OUTR’s vice-chancellor Bibhuti Bhusan Biswal said on Sunday.“We are committed to equipping students and professionals with advanced skills and knowledge. We are in the process of installing laboratories, software and essential equipment to ensure these CoEs meet global standards,” he added.The centre of excellence for design will focus on creating innovative designs for a wide range of industrial products, including automobiles and refrigeration systems, as well as domestic items.

The 40-seater laboratory will guide participants from the initial concept stage to final design validation, providing a comprehensive learning experience. The facility will serve as a hub for students, educators, industry professionals, researchers and interns, fostering a collaborative environment for design innovation.“We have already acquired the necessary software for the design CoE,” Biswal said.

“Design is the backbone of production for both industrial and domestic products and this centre will play a crucial role in shaping the future of product development,” he added.The AI and robotics CoE will offer specialised training in the application of AI and robotics across various sectors, including industry and education. The initiative will further be strengthened by a collaboration with a Japanese company, which will not only assist in setting up the CoE but also support job placement for participants, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the modern workforce, Biswal said.“These CoEs represent a significant investment in the future of technology and research in Odisha, positioning OUTR as a leader in educational excellence and innovation,” he added.