Meet Professor Nikunja Swain
Building the Curriculum for Real-World AI Applications
At South Carolina State University, Professor Nikunja Swain is dedicated to enhancing student engagement with artificial intelligence (AI) and related technologies. As the chair of the Computer Science and Mathematics department, he plays a vital role in incorporating AI education into the curriculum, ensuring that students not only gain knowledge but are also equipped to leverage technology for their future success.
Nikunja emphasizes the importance of training students in relevant skills: “The training we are providing is valuable because AI is now integrated into many aspects of our daily lives. We are trying our best to expose our students to AI, and IBM has opened up many opportunities for us.” South Carolina State University’s curriculum now includes various courses such as AI, data science, quantum computing, and cybersecurity, all designed to improve students’ practical knowledge. With the support of IBM SkillsBuild, Nikunja is focused on preparing students to meet the demands of the job market.
A key feature of IBM SkillsBuild is the opportunity for students to earn IBM credentials, which helps students illustrate their skills to potential employers. “Companies are looking for candidates with practical AI skills as well,” the professor explains. According to him, this recognition boosts students’ confidence and enhances their competitiveness in the job market.
As academic institutions evolve along with AI, there will be an increasing challenge to find new, creative, experiential ways for students to become the next generation of AI leaders. Nikunja’s initiatives reflect this trend as he seeks to provide students with hands-on experiences that connect theoretical knowledge to practical applications. By actively involving students in innovative projects and collaborative learning, he aims to position his students to take on important roles in the tech landscape, contributing effectively to the industry and enhancing their professional growth.
Looking ahead, Nikunja remains optimistic about the expansion of AI education at the university. “I believe that having this background in AI from the very first or second year is going to help our students as they progress in their studies and future careers.”