AKTU Announces AI Pragyan: Faculty Development Program in Collaboration with IBM

AKTU Announces AI Pragyan: Faculty Development Program in Collaboration with IBM

Artificial Intelligence is becoming a core part of modern education. To help faculty stay updated, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) has launched AI Pragyan, a Faculty Development Program (FDP) in collaboration with SmartBridge and IBM SkillsBuild. Notification

This program focuses on building practical AI skills, creating impactful use cases, and gaining national recognition for innovation.

Official Announcement

The program has been announced through an official circular issued by the Training & Placement Cell of AKTU under Reference Number AKTU/CTPC/2026/1288, dated 06 January 2026.Notification

It is addressed to Directors and Principals of AKTU-affiliated colleges, requesting them to circulate the information among eligible faculty members.

The announcement is issued by Prof. Neelam Srivastava, Dean – Training & Placement, AKTU, who is also Professor at the Electronics & Communication sector, Institute of Engineering & Technology (IET), Lucknow.

About AI Pragyan FDP

AI Pragyan is a nationwide Faculty Development Program organized by SmartBridge in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild.

The program is designed for faculty members to strengthen their AI competencies, apply AI concepts in real-world use cases, and gain recognition within the academic ecosystem.

Participants are encouraged to innovate, experiment, and contribute meaningfully to AI-driven education.

Program Duration & Format

1. Format: Virtual training program
2. Duration: 3 weeks
3. Total Training Hours: 30 hours
4. Flexibility: Designed to allow faculty members to balance professional responsibilities

Training Schedule & Registration

1. Program Start Date: 19 January 2026
2. Session Timings: 06:00 PM – 08:00 PM (Evenings)
3. Registration Deadline: 16 January 2026
4. Official Registration Link: Register Here

Principals and Directors are requested to circulate this opportunity and encourage faculty to register timely.

Key Benefits

1. Guided & Independent Learning: Combines structured instruction with self-paced modules
2. Hands-on Practice: Bootcamps to gain practical exposure
3. Expert Mentorship: Assistance in refining AI ideas into structured use cases
4. Resources Provided: Free IBM SkillsBuild access, digital credentials via Credly, and program completion certificate

Eligibility

1. Participants: Faculty members only
2. Institutions: AKTU-affiliated and associated colleges
3. Note: Students are not eligible

Contact & Support

1. Email for Queries: tnp.aktu@aktu.ac.in
2. Official Contact: Prof. Neelam Srivastava, Dean – Training & Placement, AKTU
3. Dean’s Email: dean.tp@aktu.ac.in

Why AI Pragyan Matters in 2026

AI is transforming education, research, and industry. Faculty members play a critical role in guiding students through this shift.

Participating in AI Pragyan helps faculty:

1. Stay industry-aligned
2. Strengthen teaching methodologies
3. Contribute to innovation in academics

Final Takeaway

The AI Pragyan Faculty Development Program, announced by AKTU in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild and SmartBridge, is a structured, practical, and nationally recognized opportunity for faculty to upskill in AI.

Faculty members should register before 16 January 2026 to take advantage of this initiative.