Edtech major upGrad, through its subsidiary upGrad Datalabs, has signed an MoU with the Maharashtra government to establish AI excellence centers across the state with an initial investment of 2,150 Cr ($248.82 million).

The agreement was formalized at Davos in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and upGrad cofounder Ronnie Screwvala. This initiative aims to position Maharashtra as a global hub for AI talent.

As part of the collaboration, ATLAS SkillTech University, supported by upGrad, will develop hybrid programmes in areas like design, digital transformation, AI, and gaming under the Maharashtra State University of Eminence initiative. Additionally, an urban university and several campus hubs will be established in partnership with three global universities as part of the state’s ‘Educity’ project.

“By empowering learners with cutting-edge, future-ready skills, we aim to bridge gaps and create transformative opportunities across urban and rural communities,” indicated Indu Shahani, Founding Chancellor and President of ATLAS SkillTech University.

Founded in 2015, upGrad specializes in online and hybrid skilling programmes. It offers certifications, boot camps, diplomas, master’s, and executive doctorate programmes in collaboration with top Indian and international universities. It also provides corporate skilling and recruitment services.

“It’s exciting to see the government of Maharashtra taking concrete steps in enabling our talent with sharp resources they need to springboard onto the growth podium. There’s a very strong urban learning infrastructure that our state has and taking it to rural areas will only accelerate our commitment of producing the largest AI-ready talent pool for the world,” Screwvala stated.