XIAMEN, China, July 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a news report by Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group Limited:

The 18th Straits Forum was held on June 13 in Xiamen, Fujian, China. At the forum, three Taiwanese youths from different fields shared their wonderful stories of working and living in the mainland. “Our success benefits from the mainland’s very complete innovation system, abundant data resources, high-quality talent pool, active capital market, and comprehensive policy support.” Chris Lai, co-founder, chairman and CEO of Metis TechBio Co., Ltd., shared how, after graduating with a PhD from MIT, he returned to the mainland and received full support from the governments of Hangzhou and Beijing in terms of funding, talent, and industrial chains. By integrating artificial intelligence with biomedicine, after six years of hard work, Metis TechBio Co., Ltd. successfully rang the bell at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in May this year, becoming the world’s first AI-driven drug delivery listed company.

The germ of scientific research aspiration gives rise to entrepreneurial ideas

Chris Lai’s connection with gene editing and biomedicine began in high school. After graduating from university, he went abroad to pursue a doctoral degree. Upon graduation in 2017, at a café in Massachusetts, he discussed the development prospects of AI in manufacturing with his now-partner, Professor Hongmin Chen, a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering. At that time, the new nano-drug developed by the other team had just been successfully launched. Right there, they sketched out their entrepreneurial blueprint on a napkin: to build a professional laboratory in the pharmaceutical field, relying on AI technology to achieve precise nano-delivery of drugs, repair diseased cells, and explore anti-aging directions for cells.

Rooting in the mainland for entrepreneurship, deepening technology to achieve breakthroughs

But limited by the technology level at the time, and with the industry generally taking a wait-and-see attitude, this plan did not officially materialize until 2019. “That year, our project won the second prize in the Hangzhou Maker Competition and received RMB 10 million in funding support.” In Hangzhou, the local government provided concierge-style services, assisting with company registration, site selection, providing talent apartments and various subsidies, and proactively connecting industry resources to fully support the technology team’s development. It took less than three months to complete the renovation of the experimental site, helping to quickly build an experimental platform. “These made us determined to root our entrepreneurship in the mainland.”

The entrepreneurial journey was full of challenges. In the early stages, various AI-developed drug carriers failed repeatedly in animal experiments, putting tremendous pressure on the team. Fortunately, Hangzhou continued to connect various R&D resources, supporting Chris Lai’s team to experiment repeatedly and iterate continuously. Over three years, Chris Lai’s team built a globally leading dry-wet experimental data platform and a tens-of-millions-level industry knowledge base.

“With AI technology, we dramatically reduced costs and improved efficiency, compressing the clinical R&D cycle for nano-materials from several years to several months, completely disrupting the traditional industry model.” With policy support and multiple rounds of financing, in just a few years, Chris Lai’s company grew into an industry unicorn. The nucleic acid drug design platform project led by Chris Lai was also selected as a national key biomedical technology breakthrough project.

Mainland’s AI leads globally, young people become the main force

Chris Lai remarked that starting a business in the mainland is vastly different from doing so overseas. “In the U.S. pharmaceutical industry, young scientists like me, though technology leaders, can usually only work at the technical level and are unlikely to be involved in company management; the industry ceiling is very low. But in China, it’s completely different. This is an era of young people. Entrepreneurs born after 1985, 1990, or even 2000 have become the main force, achieving various breakthroughs in deep AI application development, which deeply moves me.” Chris Lai said that China has already taken the lead globally in artificial intelligence, and AI is now transforming every industry and has become an innovation booster in biomedicine.

Chris Lai introduced that the team has set up a new R&D center in Beijing’s Zhongguancun, bringing together top talents from Peking University, Tsinghua University, the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, and others, with a well-established medical investment system and industry guidance funds. “Within just a few months after settling in, the local authorities helped us connect with international pharmaceutical companies, vaccine enterprises, and clinical hospitals, empowering our hard-tech breakthroughs along the entire chain.” Today, Chris Lai’s AI nano-drug delivery platform can precisely deliver drugs to multiple organs such as the liver, lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract, like building a dedicated “drug rocket” inside the body, opening up a brand-new technological track.

The mainland has sincerity, policies, and warmth

On May 13 this year, Metis TechBio Co., Ltd. was listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, becoming the world’s first AI drug delivery listed company. Chris Lai also became the first Taiwanese youth to take a hard-tech enterprise from zero to IPO in mainland China. Looking back, the partners who studied with Chris Lai at the time are now starting businesses in different cities. The small team of six people has now incubated four listed and pre-listed companies.

“As a beneficiary of cross-strait integrated development, I want to say to Taiwanese youth: the mainland has sincerity, policies, and warmth for Taiwanese youth. As long as you are willing to come, stay down-to-earth, and combine your expertise with the industrial advantages here, you will surely find your own stage.” Chris Lai encouraged Taiwanese youth, saying that artificial intelligence is a young cause and also a cause for young people. This is a critical stage for building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation. He hopes that young people on both sides of the strait will join hands, transform technological creativity into tangible products, and realize personal value in the journey of national rejuvenation.

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SOURCE Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group Limited

Cutting-edge programmes across Engineering, Management, Computer Applications,
Liberal Arts, Sciences, Fashion and Law aim to prepare future-ready professionals,

CHANDIGARH, India, July 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, positioned as India’s first AI-augmented multidisciplinary university, has introduced 17 new academic programmes from the 2026 academic session onward, including 5 postgraduate and 12 undergraduate courses across Engineering, Arts, Computer Applications, Sciences, Fashion, Law and Management. The expansion reflects the university’s stated focus on aligning higher education with emerging industry needs and preparing students not only for degrees, but for technology-driven careers in a rapidly changing global environment.

Designed as a campus that seeks to reimagine learning in the age of machine intelligence, the university says the new programmes are intended to help students build future-ready skills, adapt to changing workforce requirements and access global career opportunities. The larger academic approach is built around multidisciplinary learning, AI integration and industry relevance.

In addition to launching new programmes, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has expanded its industry-linked academic offerings through collaborations with AON for MBA in Strategic HR and Deloitte for BBA (Hons.) in Business Analytics. The university has also highlighted that it is already offering multiple industry-collaborative programmes with leading Indian and global partners in emerging domains.

New Programmes Across Key Domains

Engineering and Technology

To address growing demand in advanced technology and automation, the university has introduced B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, B.Tech in Robotics and Automation, and B.Tech (Hons.) CSE in IoT and AI. These programmes are designed to expose students to areas such as artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, smart systems and next-generation technologies.

The Aerospace Engineering curriculum is designed to include advanced themes such as machine learning, deep learning and digital twins, while integrating mechanical, electrical, electronics and computer engineering to support the development of smart machines and automated systems. The B.Tech (Hons.) CSE programme in IoT and AI is aimed at building capabilities in interconnected systems, data analytics, embedded systems and Industry 4.0 applications. The M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science) is intended to strengthen advanced skills in big data, machine learning, predictive modelling and applied data analysis.

Management and Business

The university has also introduced an MBA in Human Resources with a focus on developing professionals who can align people strategy with organisational goals and respond to evolving workplace challenges. The programme is designed to emphasise experiential learning, industry engagement and practical exposure to tools such as R, SQL, Python and Tableau, while familiarising students with AI-driven business applications.

Computer Applications and AI

In response to rising demand for digital and AI-enabled careers, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has launched BCA in AI and Machine Learning and MCA in Data Science. These programmes are positioned around machine learning, data analytics, cloud technologies, full-stack programming and AI applications, with exposure to tools and frameworks such as Python, TensorFlow and PyTorch. The MCA in Data Science is intended to combine conceptual depth with practical learning through datasets, live projects, analytics training, research and innovation exposure.

Liberal Arts and Psychology

The newly introduced BA (Hons.) Liberal Arts and BA (Hons.) Psychology programmes are aimed at strengthening critical thinking, communication, behavioural understanding and social awareness. The Liberal Arts curriculum is intended to support human-centred thinking in an AI-enhanced environment, while the Psychology programme is designed to cover areas such as clinical psychology, developmental psychology, neuropsychology and counselling, alongside contemporary themes including social media psychology, AI and psychology, and cyber psychology.

Hospitality, Aviation and Hotel Management

The university has also expanded into service-sector education with B.Sc. programmes in Hospitality and Hotel Management and Airlines and Airport Management. These programmes are designed to prepare students for opportunities in hospitality, customer service, travel, aviation and airport operations through practical and industry-oriented learning.

Science and Research

Recognising growing opportunities in research and health sciences, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has introduced B.Sc. Microbiology and M.Sc. Biotechnology. The Biotechnology programme is positioned as a research-focused postgraduate course with emphasis on genomics, molecular biology, bioprocess technology and bioinformatics, while the Microbiology curriculum is designed to connect core scientific learning with practical application.

Legal Studies

To strengthen advanced legal education, the university has introduced a one-year LL.M. programme with specialisation pathways in constitutional law, business law, criminal law and human rights. The programme is intended to prepare graduates for roles in legal practice, academia, judiciary-related work, corporate advisory and policymaking.

Broader Academic Vision

Through these 17 newly introduced programmes, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh is seeking to position education as more than a degree-granting exercise. The broader institutional objective is to connect academic learning with employability, technology adoption, industry exposure and global readiness. In an environment where employers increasingly value adaptability, digital fluency and practical capability, such programme expansion reflects the growing shift toward future-oriented higher education.

Jai Inder Sandhu, Managing Director Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh said, “After getting over whelming response in first academic year itself, India’s first AI-Augmented Multidisciplinary University, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has introduced 17 new academic programs from 2026 academic session, This New age industry aligned programs would be instrumental in nurturing future ready workforce in Emerging domains.”

The launch of these programmes reflects a larger attempt to align higher education with the realities of an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, data, automation and multidisciplinary problem-solving. By expanding options across technology, management, sciences, humanities and law, the university aims to create a wider talent base for emerging industries in India and beyond.

About Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow)

Envisioned to foster a culture of sustainability and empower future global leaders, Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, immerses 21st-century learners in a personalised and experiential learning experience, integrating an AI-powered academic model and a multidimensional, futuristic perspective on education. Our Uttar Pradesh campus carries forward the venerable legacy of more than a decade of Chandigarh University, Punjab, which has established itself as India’s No. 1 Private University and a torchbearer of groundbreaking pedagogy and research-driven innovation. The AI-augmented new campus offers a broad spectrum of industry-driven futuristic academic programs encompassing data-driven insights, virtual reality experiences, real-world simulations, corporate mentorship, international perspective, interdisciplinary research, cultivation of entrepreneurial spirit, and professional competencies.

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MUMBAI, India, July 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Protean eGov Technologies Limited, a pioneer in building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and citizen-centric digital solutions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), an autonomous institution under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, to collaborate on advancing technology-led governance, digital innovation, and inclusive development initiatives across India, with a special focus on the North Eastern Region.

The strategic partnership brings together Protean’s nearly three decades of experience in designing and operating population-scale digital platforms with NECTAR’s expertise in technology applications, geospatial solutions, and regional development. Together, the two organisations will work towards developing scalable, technology-enabled solutions that strengthen governance, improve public service delivery, and address last-mile development challenges.

The MoU establishes a framework for identifying and implementing high-impact projects across areas such as digital governance, information and communication technologies (ICT), geospatial technologies, capacity building, and technology-enabled socio-economic development. The collaboration will also explore opportunities to design innovative digital solutions that can be scaled for wider public benefit.

By combining their complementary capabilities, Protean and NECTAR aim to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies that improve citizen outcomes, strengthen institutional capacity, and contribute to sustainable and inclusive development. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to leveraging technology for public good while supporting the digital transformation agenda of the country, particularly in the North Eastern Region.

Commenting on the partnership, Rakesh Dosi, Chief Business & Product Officer, Protean eGov Technologies Limited, said: “For nearly three decades, Protean has been building population-scale digital infrastructure that enables governments to deliver trusted and inclusive citizen services at scale. We are delighted to partner with NECTAR to support the Northeastern Region’s digital transformation journey. By combining our strengths, we aim to create scalable technology solutions that strengthen governance, accelerate socio-economic development, and contribute meaningfully to the region’s growth as well as India’s broader digital development agenda.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Dr. Arun Kumar Sarma, Director General, NECTAR, said: “The Northeastern Region presents immense opportunities for technology-led growth and innovation. Our partnership with Protean brings together strong regional expertise and proven capabilities in building Digital Public Infrastructure at scale. Together, we look forward to developing impactful digital solutions that enhance governance, improve citizen outcomes, and accelerate inclusive development across the region.”

The partnership underscores the shared vision of Protean eGov Technologies and NECTAR to harness technology as a catalyst for inclusive growth, stronger governance, and sustainable development, creating long-term value for citizens and contributing to India’s digital transformation journey.

About Protean eGov Technologies Ltd

Over the past 30 years, Protean eGov Technologies Ltd has been at the forefront of building population-scale DPIs across taxation, identity services and social security. Aligned with India’s visionary DPI framework built on open standards and protocols, the company continues to contribute towards multisectoral Open Digital Ecosystems across e-commerce, transport/mobility, agriculture, education & skilling, and health. Protean has evolved from being a system integrator into a high tech, agile product organisation, instrumental in powering enterprise digitization by offering consumer and corporate tech, along with infrastructure services in cloud and cybersecurity. With a deep-rooted focus on innovation and open digital ecosystems, the company remains a key enabler in the country’s ongoing digital transformation.

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