On Wednesday, officials instructed Galgotias University in Greater Noida to leave the AI Impact Summit Expo after it caused a 'national embarrassment' by presenting a Chinese Unitree robodog as its own, according to sources familiar with the situation.
Professor Neha Singh from Galgotias University stated that the university has not been given any such instructions by the authorities. "We have not been directed in this manner. Galgotias University is a highly responsible institution," she remarked.
In a statement released late Tuesday, Galgotias University expressed that both its faculty and students are greatly distressed by the 'propaganda campaign' targeting the institution. The university further mentioned that robotic programming is integral to its efforts to teach students AI programming and to cultivate and apply practical skills using globally accessible tools and resources, as nurturing AI talent is currently essential.
The university emphasized that its vision prioritizes student education and innovation. 'We offer students access to contemporary technologies, enabling them to acquire hands-on experience and ready themselves for the future. Negative attitudes can damage the morale of students who are diligently striving to innovate, learn, and enhance their skills with international technologies.'
Controversy over Galgotias' robotic dog
In a widely shared video, Professor Neha Singh from Galgotias University mentioned the robodog, stating, "You should get acquainted with Orion. This was created by the Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University."
She stated that the device is designed for surveillance and monitoring purposes, and highlighted that it can navigate freely across the campus.
Shortly thereafter, numerous viewers alleged that the robotic dog was in fact obtained from the Chinese robotics company Unitree.
Galgotias provides an explanation
Following the online criticism, Galgotias University issued a statement on social media clarifying that it never asserted to have created the robot dog.
The university clarified in its statement, 'Galgotias did not create this robodog, nor have we ever claimed to. Our focus is on nurturing minds that will soon be capable of designing, engineering, and producing such technologies in Bharat.'
What exactly is a Unitree robotic dog?
Unitree Robotics has developed a series of sophisticated four-legged robots known as 'robodogs,' designed to mimic the movement and walking patterns of real animals. These robots are capable of performing various tasks, such as navigating obstacles, inspecting industrial locations, and even providing entertainment.
Unitree, a robotics company based in China, is recognized for manufacturing these machines at more affordable prices, making them more accessible compared to competitors like Boston Dynamics' Spot.
