Chandigarh University Honoured as ‘AI-First Organisation’ at Republic AI Summit & Awards 2026

Chandigarh University has been conferred with the prestigious ‘AI-First Organisation’ award at the Republic AI Summit & Awards 2026, organised by Republic Media. This recognition stands as a powerful validation of the University’s sustained efforts in integrating artificial intelligence across education, research, and innovation. It reflects CU’s core belief that AI is not merely an academic discipline, but a transformative tool that must be experienced, applied, and leveraged for the larger good of society.

Guided by the visionary leadership of Honourable Chancellor Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu Ji, Chandigarh University continues to strengthen its mission of delivering future-ready education while driving innovation with purpose. The award was received on behalf of the institution by Mr. Deep Inder Singh, Hon’ble Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University, and Ms. Archita Nandi, CEO–TBI, Chandigarh University, who represented the University at the ceremony.

From Vision to National Recognition

What truly distinguishes Chandigarh University is its ability to convert ambition into meaningful, measurable impact. The ‘AI-First Organisation’ honour is a testament to years of sustained efforts that have positioned CU as a national hub for AI-driven dialogue, innovation, and action.

A defining milestone in this journey was India AI Convergence 2026, an official run-up event to the India AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) at the CU-UP campus. The event transformed the campus into a national convergence point for AI experts, policymakers, researchers, startups, industry leaders, and educators. Together, they explored how India’s AI ecosystem can move beyond theory to deliver scalable, real-world, life-changing solutions.

Through national-level hackathons, policy-focused AI initiatives, and innovation platforms like India AI Convergence 2026, Chandigarh University has created a dynamic ecosystem where classrooms connect with boardrooms and research labs translate ideas into societal impact. Students working on AI-driven healthcare diagnostics, smart governance models, and intelligent public solutions gain direct exposure to industry mentors and policymakers. This ensures they understand how AI solutions are designed, tested, and deployed in real-world environments—transforming them from passive learners into active problem-solvers.

These initiatives not only enhance learning outcomes but also align young innovators with India’s national priorities, preparing them to become future professionals and key contributors to the country’s digital and technological transformation.

Why the Republic AI Summit & Awards 2026 Matters

The Republic AI Summit & Awards 2026, themed “Cracking India’s AI Code”, served as a high-impact national platform aimed at accelerating India’s AI ecosystem through dialogue, policy thinking, governance, and innovation. It brought together policymakers, academic leaders, industry experts, and governance stakeholders to shape a unified vision for a globally competitive, India-centric AI ecosystem.

Beyond discussions, the platform recognised institutions and leaders actively strengthening India’s journey towards AI self-reliance and technological leadership. The awards reinforced a shared national vision—one where AI growth is inclusive, ethical, scalable, and aligned with long-term national goals such as the Viksit Bharat 2047 Mission.

Looking Ahead: Building India’s AI-Ready Leadership

The ‘AI-First Organisation’ award stands as a strong validation of Chandigarh University’s commitment to continuous innovation, academic excellence, and future-focused education. Chandigarh University, UP, continues to strengthen its position as a leading AI-augmented university with an AI-driven, industry-integrated curriculum, advanced incubation ecosystems such as TBI–CUBE, Centres of Excellence, and world-class infrastructure.

Students benefit from hands-on exposure to real industry challenges—ranging from predictive analytics for businesses and AI-powered fintech solutions to smart technologies for public infrastructure. This applied learning approach ensures graduates are not only skilled in AI technologies but are also equipped to lead transformation across sectors.

As India moves rapidly toward becoming a global AI powerhouse, Chandigarh University remains committed to nurturing talent that can think responsibly, innovate boldly, and lead confidently—driving meaningful change for society and the nation.