Kozhikode, September 30, 2025: In a landmark move to boost research and innovation in advanced technologies, the SAFI Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS), Malappuram, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish “Dr. Moopen’s AI & Robotics Centre by SAFI.” The MoU was formalised at a colourful ceremony held at Hotel Tripenta, Kozhikode, attended by dignitaries from academia, industry, and the SAFI fraternity.

Present at the ceremony were SAFI Chairman C.H. Abdul Rahim, Chairman Emeritus Dr. P. Mohamed Ali (Galfar), SAFI Social Empower Centre Advisory Board Chairman Munavar Ali Thangal, SAFI CEO Prof. Imbichikoya, project consultant Santhosh Kurup, members of the SAFI Trust, Dr. Azad Moopen’s family members, and other prominent guests.

The upcoming centre, envisioned as a world-class hub for artificial intelligence and robotics, aims to spearhead human resource development, advanced research, and innovation. “The project is designed to equip students with future-ready skills, foster industry collaboration, and nurture entrepreneurs in creating technology-driven products and services,” said SAFI Chairman Abdul Rahim.

The initiative will also focus on industrial partnerships, technology incubation, strengthening India’s AI and robotics ecosystem, and supporting central and state government digitisation efforts. “By combining technological expertise with academic excellence, the centre will generate strong intellectual capital in both research and innovation. The facility is expected to become fully operational within two years,” he added.

Expressing his delight, Dr. Azad Moopen remarked, “This is one of the first initiatives of its kind in India, integrating technology and entrepreneurship. My family and I are proud to be part of this future-oriented project, which will drive technological advancement and innovation.”

Dr. P. Mohamed Ali noted that within just two decades, SAFI has become a major centre of higher education in North Kerala. “The AI & Robotics Centre marks another milestone in SAFI’s journey toward excellence,” he said.

Once fully functional, the centre is expected to emerge as a driving force in India’s technology landscape by fostering innovation, research collaborations, and cutting-edge applications, said SAFI General Secretary M.A. Mehaboob.

Located on the scenic Vazhayur campus in Malappuram, SAFI Institute of Advanced Studies is an autonomous, NAAC A+ accredited college, offering more than 20 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in science, technology, management, commerce, and humanities. The campus also houses the PMA Institute of Human Resource Centre, which runs AICTE-accredited management programmes, civil service training, and community empowerment initiatives.

The project presentation was delivered by consultant Santhosh Kurup, and the ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by SAFI CEO Prof. E.P Imbichikoya.