TechM, Mahindra University’s new lab to focus on metaverse, quantum computing research

IT major Tech Mahindra (TechM) and Mahindra University have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to set up a new 'Makers Lab' for research and development. The lab will work in areas such as quantum computing, explainable artificial intelligence (AI) that presents data in a manner that can be understood by humans, and Metaverse, a virtual world where people can connect through their digital avatars.

Tech Mahindra already has 10 Makers Lab across the world and the new unit at Mahindra University will be the 11th facility globally and second in Hyderabad, said the company.

“With the launch of Makers Lab, we will provide many talented and skilled individuals, with the opportunity to progress for a greater cause,” said CP Gurnani, MD & CEO, Tech Mahindra.

He added that the MoU will combine Tech Mahindra’s technological expertise and Mahindra University’s strong experience in the educational sector to build an exemplary institution at the Hyderabad campus, in the form of the Makers lab.

“The lab will be a frontrunner in boosting innovation and R&D to democratise access to high-quality education," Gurnani said.

 As a part of the partnership, the students of Mahindra University will get an opportunity to work on IPs made within the Makers Lab and get deployed in R&D projects on campus. They will also collaborate with coding groups like “Engima” within the university to get access to projects, internships, and employment opportunities.

In other words, Makers Lab will focus on the effect of quantum on image optimisation for satellites etc. and explore work on explainable AI in collaboration with Mahindra University. Further, the company which is already betting on metaverse and has launched TechMVerse in February 2022 to offer immersive experience to customers is planning broader research and development in this area.

The evaluation process to select students for Makers Lab will be facilitated by Mahindra University and Tech Mahindra, the company said in a statement.
Dr. Y Medury, Vice Chancellor, Mahindra University believes that the MoU will further deepen our ties with Tech Mahindra to strengthen technology research in the country. "This will also provide the students an exciting opportunity to collaborate with subject matter experts and industry leaders to work on exciting develop real-world applications,” he said.

These initiatives, according to the company, are part of Tech Mahindra’s NXT.NOW framework, which aims to enhance ‘human centric experience’, by investing in emerging technologies and solutions that enable digital transformation to meet the evolving needs of the customers.