Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Kolkata's Institute of Engineering and Management (IEM) are working together to promote artificial intelligence or AI-based research, innovation and applied learning. An AI-focused 'Center of Excellence' (Centre of Excellence – CoE) is going to be created in a joint venture between the two institutions. The initiative aims to strengthen the link between education and the technical needs of real industries and prepare skilled manpower for the future.
The announcement, published on 28 September 2026, informed that the plan was initially adopted for two years. Through this, students and teachers will get a chance to work hand-in-hand with artificial intelligence. Besides, the application of this technology in practice, research and working on new innovative ideas will also be created.
The two institutions will undertake multiple programs through this center. Which includes – artificial intelligence based workshops, teacher skill development training, special training for students and skill based certification etc. There are also plans for joint research, early stage technical experiments or Proof of Concept and various projects based on artificial intelligence as per the needs of the industry.
One of the key aspects of this initiative is that IEM students will get an opportunity to work on active projects under the guidance of TCS professionals. As a result, there will be opportunities to gain hands-on experience in solving real-world problems and applying technology beyond the curriculum. Abhijit Niyogi, Vice President and Business Head (Retail, Europe), TCS, said that connecting the education sector with real industry needs is critical to building the technological skills of tomorrow.
On the other hand, the Director of IEM Kolkata Professor Dr. Satyajit Chakraborty said that one of their goals is to link education with the changing needs of industry and society. He is hopeful that this joint venture with TCS will help the students and teachers in that work.
The two organizations hope that the scope of the 'Center of Excellence' will expand further in the future. This will create opportunities for knowledge acquisition, research and innovation among students, teachers and experts of TCS. The center will serve as a platform for long-term collaboration between education and technology industry.