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Himachal Pradesh Government will start new age courses — including Artificial Intelligence (AI), data science, and mechatronics engineering — in its technical institutions from August this year.
 
The directions to this effect were given by the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while presiding over a review meeting of technical institutions on late Saturday evening.
 
The Chief Minister emphasized the significance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The State Government has taken the decisive step of introducing a range of courses across various institutions in the next academic session, he said.
 
Sukhu said that Government Hydro Engineering College, Bilaspur, will offer the Bachelor of Technology (B Tech) program in Computer Science and Engineering with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. “This course has received approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), ensuring its adherence to high educational standards,” he said.
 
“Additionally, the Government Polytechnic Institutions in Rohru and Chamba will now offer specialized courses in Computer Engineering and Internet of Things, and Mechatronics Engineering, respectively. These courses have also been approved by the AICTE and HP Takniki Shiksha Board, Dharamshala,” he added.
 
The Chief Minister said that in line with the industry’s evolving demands, other courses will also be introduced in 17 Industrial Training Institutes in the state, including Mechanic Electric Vehicle, Technician Mechatronics, Fibre to Home Technician, Solar Technician (Electric), Internet of Things Technician, and Maintenance Mechanic (Chemical Plant).
 
Such diverse offerings cater to a wide array of technological sectors and enable students to develop specialized skills, he added.
 
Stressing on the importance of practical training, Sukhu asked for collaboration with leading companies to provide students with real-world exposure. By fostering such partnerships, the Government aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers, he added.
 
 In order to ensure the highest quality of education, the Government will deploy qualified staff members who are being imparted specialized training, he said.
 
The Chief Minister said: “With the introduction of these new age courses, the Himachal Pradesh Government endeavors to create a conducive environment for technological advancements and to open up abundant employment opportunities for the state's youth.”
 
“By equipping students with the skills required in emerging fields, the government envisions a brighter future where the youth of the state can actively contribute to the growth and development of the nation,” he added.