Lucknow, January: Chandigarh University (CU), India’s No. 1 private university as per QS Asia University Rankings 2025, has announced the establishment of its AI-enabled campus in the Lucknow State Capital Region (SCR), Unnao. With a commitment to providing multidisciplinary, AI-augmented education, the campus is poised to redefine the educational landscape in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. CU has also introduced scholarships worth Rs.40 crore through its Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET) 2025 and an additional Rs.3 crore in the form of the 'CV Raman Scholarship' to promote careers in scientific research.
Set in India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) City in Lucknow SCR, the CU Uttar Pradesh campus will offer 43 futuristic undergraduate and postgraduate programs across six key streams: Engineering, Business Administration, Health and Life Sciences, Humanities, Liberal Arts, and Legal Studies. These programs, integrated with cutting-edge AI, are tailored to meet the demands of the 21st-century economy, equipping students with future-ready skills.
The campus was officially announced during a press conference at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyaya launched the university’s web portal and prospectus for the 2025-26 academic session. Joining him were CU Chancellor and Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, CU Pro Chancellor Prof. Himani Sood, CU Managing Director Jai Inder Singh Sandhu, and Mukesh Jain, Executive Vice President of Capgemini.
Speaking at the event, Minister Yogendra Upadhyaya highlighted the transformative role of Chandigarh University in Uttar Pradesh’s educational growth. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a key growth engine for India, with a vision to become a $1 trillion economy by 2025. The launch of CU’s AI-enabled campus aligns perfectly with our state’s ambition to create a skilled workforce and make higher education both accessible and affordable.”
He emphasized that Uttar Pradesh, with its burgeoning AI ecosystem and the establishment of India’s first AI City in Lucknow, is creating enormous opportunities for youth. The AI City has already attracted investments of Rs.2,500 crore, including commitments from major private technology firms and venture capitalists, ensuring the creation of 50,000 jobs over the next five years.
“The arrival of a world-class institution like Chandigarh University means that students no longer need to migrate out of the state for quality education,” he added.
CU’s commitment to making education affordable is evident through its robust scholarship offerings. The CUCET 2025 portal is now open for registrations, enabling students to compete for scholarships worth Rs.40 crore. Additionally, the university has introduced the Rs.3 crore ‘CV Raman Scholarship’ for aspiring scientists, reinforcing its dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and research.
CU Managing Director Jai Inder Singh Sandhu stated, “CUCET is not just a scholarship test but a gateway to realizing the academic dreams of thousands of students. By providing up to 100% scholarships, we ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to world-class education.”
CU Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu reiterated the transformative power of AI in education. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for an AI-driven India is inspiring institutions across the country. With the launch of CU Uttar Pradesh, we are not just imparting education but preparing students to lead in the AI revolution. Our programs are designed to empower learners with global competencies and create a workforce ready for the challenges of tomorrow.”
He added, “The Uttar Pradesh campus will address the growing demand for higher education in the state, where the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) needs to double by 2035 to meet the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP).”
CU’s innovative approach extends beyond traditional STEM fields, incorporating AI into diverse disciplines such as social sciences, law, and humanities. Mukesh Jain of Capgemini remarked, “AI is not merely a technological tool; it is a transformative force reshaping industries and economies. By integrating AI across streams, CU is equipping students with the skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.”
Debunking myths about AI-induced job losses, Jain highlighted that AI will create millions of new job opportunities in India, with an estimated 27 lakh new tech-related positions emerging by 2028.
Since its inception in 2012, Chandigarh University has consistently set benchmarks in education, earning accolades as India’s top private university. Its commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation makes it a trusted name in higher education.
The launch of Chandigarh University’s AI-integrated campus in Uttar Pradesh marks a significant milestone in the state’s educational and economic development. By offering groundbreaking programs and substantial scholarships, CU is empowering the youth to be future leaders in an AI-driven world, aligning perfectly with the vision of a self-reliant India and Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious growth targets