Kochi: IBM, the global technology giant, has designated its software lab in Kochi as the primary hub in India, as announced by Senior Vice President Dinesh Nirmal after discussions with Industries Minister P Rajeev. The Kochi centre, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analysis, has rapidly expanded to 1,500 employees within a year, making it the fastest-growing among IBM's five software labs in India.

Minister P Rajeev highlighted that this development positions Kochi as a crucial centre, allowing professionals working abroad to return home. The lab's prominence is expected to attract top global companies using IBM's software products to Kerala. It was noted that many AI and data software widely used globally were developed in Kerala.

During the discussions, an agreement was reached to offer paid full-time internships lasting six months to students from Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) and APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University. Minister Rajeev emphasised that this initiative enables students to gain international-level work experience from IBM while pursuing their studies.

IBM actively recruits 200 to 300 professionals annually from CUSAT and KTU and provides internship opportunities to 300 students, added Dinesh Nirmal.