Deakin University and the Government of Telangana, through Aikam Telangana AI Innovation Hub, have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in applied artificial intelligence, skilling, research, and innovation.
The agreement was formalised at the Telangana State Secretariat in the presence of senior officials and leadership from both organisations. The MoU was exchanged between Professor Iain Martin, President and Vice-Chancellor of Deakin University, and Shri Phani Nagarjuna, Founding CEO of Aikam.
The partnership establishes a long-term framework to advance applied AI initiatives with a focus on real-world impact, economic growth, and workforce transformation. It aligns with Telangana’s vision of becoming a global hub for frontier technologies and talent development.
Shri Bhavesh Mishra, Special Secretary, ITEC Department, Government of Telangana, stated that the collaboration underscores the state’s commitment to building a responsible and inclusive AI ecosystem. He noted that partnerships with global academic institutions are critical for translating advanced research into practical applications across governance and industry.
The collaboration will focus on three key pillars: AI skilling and education, research and applied innovation, and ecosystem and industry engagement. These include co-designed training programs, executive education, curriculum development, joint research initiatives, and support for startups and industry partnerships.
A key outcome of the MoU is the establishment of the Aikam–Deakin Hub for Research in Intelligent Technology and Innovation (Aikam–DHRITI), a joint Centre of Excellence dedicated to applied artificial intelligence.
Phani Nagarjuna highlighted that the initiative will create an open innovation platform connecting research, policy, and industry deployment. He emphasised the goal of building a globally competitive AI ecosystem capable of delivering large-scale impact.
Professor Iain Martin noted that the collaboration offers significant opportunities to develop AI-driven solutions across domains such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and machine learning, while strengthening India–Australia ties.
The initiative combines Deakin University’s expertise in applied AI with Telangana’s innovation-driven ecosystem to enable scalable, data-driven solutions and responsible AI adoption. It is expected to accelerate workforce development, support public sector transformation, and foster innovation-led growth.
