The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai has launched a new School of Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), introducing two academic programs aimed at blending technical skills with social awareness. The school offers a master’s degree in analytics and a bachelor’s degree in analytics and sustainability, designed to prepare students for the evolving demands of technology-driven and socially responsible careers.
Building a New Academic Hub for Analytics and AI
The new school is a collaboration with Tata Trusts and may be named the 'Ratan Tata School of Analytics' to honor Ratan Tata’s dedication to ethical innovation and sustainable development. This initiative reflects TISS’s commitment to integrating technology with social sciences, bringing together experts from diverse fields including social sciences, technology, mathematics, and science.
Previously part of the Labour Market Research Facility under the School of Management and Labour Studies, the School of Analytics now stands as an independent entity focused on research and policy intervention. Its academic agenda centers on two main areas: Artificial Intelligence and Society, and Sustainability Transitions.
Key Features and Academic Offerings
- The master’s program in analytics emphasizes technical proficiency alongside critical social perspectives, preparing graduates to address complex societal challenges using data-driven methods.
- The bachelor’s program combines analytics with sustainability studies, equipping students to understand and manage the environmental and social impacts of technological advancements.
- The school plans to establish advanced research laboratories dedicated to AI governance and sustainability metrics, fostering innovation that is socially grounded.
- Partnerships with public institutions and industry players will support responsible technology deployment and the creation of open-access data platforms to aid evidence-based policymaking.
- Future initiatives include executive education programs and international collaborations focusing on digital transformation, climate analytics, and urban informality.
Why This School Matters for Technology and Society
The School of Analytics and AI at TISS aims to become a global center for research, policy advice, and capacity building that situates scientific advancements within the socio-political realities of the Global South. By emphasizing inclusive innovation and ethical AI, the school seeks to promote equitable development pathways that are sensitive to diverse community needs.
This approach reflects a broader shift in how technology education is evolving—moving beyond purely technical training to include ethical considerations and social impact. The school’s launch follows the Global Colloquium on “AI, Digital Technologies, and Society” hosted by TISS, underscoring the institute’s role in shaping knowledge systems that are innovative, just, and inclusive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What programs does the new School of Analytics and AI offer?
A: The school offers a master’s degree in analytics and a bachelor’s degree in analytics and sustainability.
Q: Why is the school potentially named after Ratan Tata?
A: It is being considered to honor Ratan Tata’s commitment to ethical technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
Q: What are the main research focuses of the school?
A: The school focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Society, and Sustainability Transitions, aiming to integrate technology with social and environmental concerns.
