Is Varanasi Set to Open UP's First Advanced AI and Robotics Lab in 2026?
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Lucknow, Dec 10 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance public education, Varanasi is preparing to unveil an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Lab at PM Shri Rajkiya Queens Inter College.
This state-of-the-art facility, featuring the latest technological advancements, aims to offer students practical experience in AI, electronics, robotics, and other innovative fields.
The robotics lab at Queens College—billed as Uttar Pradesh’s first—has reached completion.
This project has been made feasible through the contributions of the college’s alumnus, Prof. Dharmendra Singh, who is currently the Director of IIIT Vadodara. Constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh, this modern facility is anticipated to serve as a landmark in fostering innovation and scientific thought among students in government schools throughout Varanasi.
The forthcoming AI and Robotics Lab will provide project-based learning, hands-on experimentation, and expert-led training by certified professionals. This initiative will equip students with skills in creativity, problem-solving, logical reasoning, and engineering concepts, effectively bridging the divide between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
According to the principal of the school, Sumit Kumar Srivastava, this initiative is inspired by Prof. Dharmendra Singh.
In a statement to IANS, he said that the project aligns closely with the vision of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to enhance technological education in government institutions.
“This is a significant advancement. In this lab, students will learn to construct robots, work on AI, engage in drone-making, and even delve into electric vehicles, mobile and laptop repairs, among other topics. Operations are expected to commence early in the New Year (2026). Initially, the facility will serve our Rajkiya Vidyalaya, and a total of 31 government schools in Banaras will participate in the training program. An MoU with IIIT Vadodara is also forthcoming, making us the first school in the state to do so. This will greatly support our students,” he emphasized.
Ganesh, a student who participated in a previous robotics project, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility. He told IANS, “We had previously constructed a robot, but with this AI lab, we can enhance it significantly. The lab will provide new resources, including drone-making tools and other technologies. This will enable me to upgrade my robot. It’s a tremendous opportunity for us.”