Strategic Collaboration on Artificial Intelligence
Hyderabad, India – September 8, 2025:
In a landmark move to deepen Australia–India cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Deakin University, Australia, and the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (ITE&C), Government of Telangana, have signed a Letter of Intent. This partnership focuses on mission-driven AI innovation for the public good and advancing India’s digital economy.
Deakin University, ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, has over three decades of academic and industry engagement in India. Through its Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative, the university brings globally recognized research expertise, complementing Telangana’s forward-looking vision to integrate AI into governance, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship.
Objectives of the Collaboration
This partnership aims to accelerate responsible AI adoption and strengthen India’s innovation capacity in alignment with national and state priorities. The collaboration will:
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Develop AI-enabled public sector solutions in health, education, and governance while supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
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Translate applied AI research into scalable, real-world applications, supported by policy, procurement, and capability enablers.
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Foster knowledge exchange and challenge-driven innovation guided by local priorities.
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Support talent development, AI education, and workforce capacity building.
Statements from Leaders
Shri Duddila Sridhar Babu, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, and Industry, Government of Telangana
“This partnership is about more than Artificial Intelligence; it is about shaping the future. By combining Deakin’s global research excellence with Telangana’s innovation ecosystem, we are building a platform where AI can transform healthcare, education, governance, and entrepreneurship. Our framework emphasizes skilling, data governance, and regulation to ensure AI is ethical, inclusive, and future-ready.”
Professor Iain Martin, Vice Chancellor, Deakin University
“Deakin is shaping future-ready graduates in AI, cybersecurity, and health. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to empowering Indian students with high-quality education while driving research-based innovation.”
Shri Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, ITE&C
“AI is a transformative tool for equitable growth. This partnership strengthens Telangana’s ability to develop global-standard AI capabilities, driving India’s global competitiveness.”
Professor Svetha Venkatesh, Co-Director, Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative, Deakin University
“Australia and India are uniquely positioned to create human-centered, socially relevant AI solutions by combining global expertise with local insight.
About Deakin University
Founded in 1974, Deakin University has grown into one of Australia’s most innovative and globally connected institutions. Celebrating 50 years of impact, Deakin is renowned for balancing excellence in education and research with real-world outcomes that benefit communities worldwide.
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Campuses: Four campuses across Australia
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Courses: Over 300 industry-relevant programs
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Recognition: Australia’s #1 university for overall educational experience
Learn more: Deakin University Official Website
FAQs About the Deakin University–Telangana AI Collaboration
1. What is the purpose of the partnership between Deakin University and the Government of Telangana?
The partnership aims to advance AI innovation for the public good, strengthen India’s digital public infrastructure, and promote responsible adoption of artificial intelligence in governance, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship.
2. How will this collaboration benefit India?
The initiative will accelerate applied AI research, support MSMEs, build AI-enabled public sector solutions, and develop a skilled workforce aligned with India’s digital economy and National Education Policy 2020.
3. What role will Deakin University play in this collaboration?
Deakin will contribute its expertise through the Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative, offering cutting-edge research, talent development, and partnerships with academia and industry to create scalable AI solutions.
4. Why was Telangana chosen for this collaboration?
Telangana has established itself as a hub for digital innovation through its Emerging Technology Wing. Its proactive policies and vision to integrate AI across multiple sectors make it an ideal partner for Deakin University.
5. How does this partnership align with India’s national goals?
The collaboration supports India’s mission to lead in responsible, inclusive, and human-centered AI, in line with national strategies for digital public infrastructure and equitable economic growth.
6. When will the initiatives under this partnership be implemented?
Both parties are currently exploring pathways for coordination and implementation. Specific initiatives will be launched progressively, contributing to Telangana’s emergence as a global AI innovation hub.
