IIM Sambalpur, in a major step towards digital transformation in the coal sector, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) to train 500 officers in artificial intelligence (AI) and related technologies.MCL director (HR) Keshav Rao and IIM Sambalpur director Mahadeo Jaiswal signed the MoU on Saturday.Under the collaboration, officers from various disciplines in MCL will receive AI training aimed at improving coal business operations, process management, business development and innovation. The initiative is expected to help the Coal India subsidiary integrate advanced technologies into its operational and administrative systems.Speaking on the occasion, Jaiswal said the partnership reflected a shared vision of leveraging AI and machine learning to build future-ready leadership and drive technology-led organizational growth. He added that IIM Sambalpur has emerged as the first institute globally to introduce AI education across all functional areas for its entire batch of management students.summer internshipFM University, Balasore, has launched a three-week Summer Internship Program (SIP) 2026 aimed at promoting interdisciplinary learning and research exposure among undergraduate students.Organized by several postgraduate departments, including sociology, political science, economics, journalism and anthropology, the program aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Indian Knowledge Systems. Around 170 students are participating in the internship running from May 4 to May 24.Vice-chancellor Santosh Kumar Tripathy inaugurated the program and stressed the importance of experiential learning. Faculty members outlined department-wise objectives, while an interactive session enabled students to discuss their academic interests and expectations.Principals’ meetRama Devi University organized a principals’ meet on May 7 at the Rama Devi Auditorium with participation by principals from 48 affiliated colleges across the state.The meeting, organized by the College Development Council (CDC), focused on strengthening academic coordination, implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), internship opportunities and quality improvement in higher education.Vice-chancellor Jyotsna KB Rout stressed the importance of skill development, internships and collaborative efforts for building a stronger educational ecosystem. Regional director of higher education Saroj Laxmi Singh highlighted the need for joint inspections for granting permanent recognition to subjects completing seven years of temporary recognition.
