The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi), through its Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), has invited applications for its first two-month summer residential programme, HIMSHIKHAR 2026. The initiative aims to equip students and young professionals with industry-aligned skills in emerging technologies and entrepreneurship while bridging the gap between academia and industry.
The programme offers an immersive on-campus learning experience, allowing participants to live within the IIT Mandi ecosystem and work on real-world projects under the mentorship of faculty and industry experts. Structured across 190 hours, the course includes 100 hours of faculty-led sessions, 50 hours of tutorials conducted by PhD scholars, and 40 hours of sessions delivered by industry professionals.
HIMSHIKHAR 2026 features five specialised tracks designed to meet current industry demands. These include Software Development with AI, which focuses on building intelligent applications; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, covering core concepts for data-driven problem-solving; Agentic AI Systems, introducing autonomous decision-making technologies; Data Science, emphasising analytics, visualisation, and predictive modelling; and Entrepreneurship and Venture Building, aimed at developing startup and innovation skills.
Speaking on the launch, Prof. Tushar Jain, Head of the Centre for Continuing Education at IIT Mandi, said the programme integrates academic rigour with practical, outcome-driven training. He highlighted that each module focuses on hands-on learning, problem-solving, and the use of real-world tools guided by both faculty and industry practitioners.
The programme is open to candidates who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification from a recognised board. The admission process includes submission of an online application, followed by an entrance test assessing reasoning and analytical abilities. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for counselling to select their preferred track, after which final admission will be confirmed upon completion of formalities and fee payment.
A total of 1,250 seats are available across the five tracks, with 250 seats allocated to each. The programme is scheduled to commence in May 2026, with reporting on May 16 and classes beginning from May 18.
Through HIMSHIKHAR 2026, IIT Mandi aims to strengthen its commitment to developing future-ready talent equipped with skills in emerging technologies and innovation-driven domains.
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