Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, currently on a four-day visit to India, announced that Canadian universities are stepping up their collaboration with Indian institutions through a series of new talent partnerships. Sharing the update on social media platform X, Carney stated that 13 fresh agreements have been finalised. According to him, the main focus is on joint research initiatives and the establishment of artificial intelligence (AI) centres of excellence, aimed at expanding academic cooperation and giving students international exposure.
One of the major highlights of the visit came from McGill University, which confirmed plans to set up a new AI education and research centre in India. The announcement was made during an academic mission led by Universities Canada and attended by Carney and Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand.
McGill stated that the centre is expected to open in May 2027, with its first batch of students enrolling in the fall of the same year. Initially, around 50 students will be admitted, with plans to gradually expand capacity to about 200 students. The centre will offer a master’s programme that blends classroom learning with practical training and industry-linked AI projects.
According to the university, its Faculty of Engineering will design the curriculum, define academic standards and oversee research priorities and quality assurance. The Indian partner institution will handle on-ground coordination and engagement with local stakeholders. McGill officials emphasised that the initiative forms part of the university’s broader strategy to expand its global academic presence while maintaining high academic standards.
The project is being developed in collaboration with the Jubilant Bhartia Group, which will provide land, infrastructure and operational support. The group will also help connect the centre with companies in India’s growing technology and AI sectors.
Carney arrived in New Delhi after engagements in Mumbai and is visiting India from February 27 to March 2 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, both sides are expected to review progress under the India–Canada Strategic Partnership, covering trade, energy, education, research and global issues.
