Punjab University to Launch AI, Robotics and Agriculture Courses from 2026-27 Session

Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Saturday announced the introduction of five new industry-oriented and skill-based academic programmes at Sardar Beant Singh State University, Gurdaspur, from the 2026-27 academic session.
The new courses include B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, B.Tech in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, B.Pharmacy, B.Sc Agriculture, and five-year integrated programmes in MCA, MBA and M.Sc.
Bains said the initiative is part of the Punjab Government’s broader strategy to transform higher education into a more employment-oriented and globally competitive system under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Highlighting the changing demands of the job market, the Education Minister said traditional theory-driven and examination-focused education models are no longer sufficient. He said the university is shifting towards practical learning, laboratory-based training and real-world problem-solving to equip students with industry-relevant skills.
“Sardar Beant Singh State University will not merely produce degree holders but will serve as a launchpad for innovation-driven youth capable of meeting future industry demands,” Bains said.
The minister further announced that every student enrolled in the new programmes will be required to complete a semester-long internship and participate in live industry projects as part of the curriculum. The objective, he said, is to ensure that graduates enter the workforce with hands-on experience and are ready for employment from day one.
“Our goal is that by the time students complete their studies, they are already industry-ready. This is not just a curriculum reform but a major transformation in how Punjab’s youth learn, earn and progress,” he added.
Bains said the initiative is also aimed at reversing the trend of talent migration from Punjab. He noted that many families currently send their children outside the state in search of quality technical and professional education.
The Punjab Government, he said, is committed to developing future-ready universities within the state so that students can access world-class education and career opportunities without leaving Punjab.
The move is expected to strengthen technical education infrastructure in the state while creating a skilled workforce in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.