Galgotias University RoboDog Controversy Erupts at AI Summit
Galgotias University recently became embroiled in a significant controversy following an incident at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. The university was reportedly asked to vacate its exhibition space after allegations surfaced that a robotic dog, named "Orion" and displayed at their stall, was of Chinese origin. This development has sparked widespread debate and scrutiny over the presentation of the technology.
Viral Video and Misunderstandings
A video from the event, which quickly went viral on social media, captured Professor Neha Singh introducing the robot with enthusiasm. This led to online speculation that the university might have been presenting the RoboDog as an internally developed innovation. In response, Singh, who serves as the Head of Department - Communications at the School of Business, Galgotias University, provided clarifications to PTI.
She emphasized that she is not part of the core technical teaching faculty and was unaware of the specific details regarding the robot's development. Singh stressed that there was never any claim made by the university that they had manufactured the robotic dog. Addressing the viral footage, she admitted that the fast-paced environment and her enthusiastic delivery may have contributed to misunderstandings among attendees and viewers.
Intent and Educational Goals
According to Singh, the primary intent behind showcasing the RoboDog was to use it as a demonstration tool. The goal was to motivate students to aspire towards building more advanced robotic systems themselves. She highlighted that Galgotias University's broader objective is to expose students to emerging artificial intelligence technologies and foster hands-on learning experiences.
The institution aims to equip students with practical skills by allowing them to experiment with globally available tools, thereby preparing them for real-world applications in AI. This approach, she maintained, is central to their educational philosophy and talent development initiatives.
Official University Statement
Amid mounting criticism, Galgotias University issued an official clarification expressing concern over what it described as a "propaganda campaign." The university reiterated that robotic programming demonstrations are a key component of their efforts to train students in AI development. They affirmed that their focus remains on building AI talent by enabling students to deploy and innovate with technologies that are accessible worldwide.
Background of Professor Neha Singh
On the academic front, Neha Singh joined Galgotias University in November 2023. Prior to this role, her professional experience includes working at Sharda University in Greater Noida as an Assistant Professor and Verbal Ability mentor at Career Launcher. She also had a tenure at GITAM, a deemed university.
Singh completed her MBA from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya in 2006 and her B.Com from the University of Allahabad earlier. Her background in communications and education underscores her role in promoting academic initiatives rather than technical fabrication.
Ongoing Debate and Clarifications
When questioned about whether the government had directed the university to vacate the expo area, Singh stated she had no information regarding such an order. She simply noted that, to her knowledge, university representatives were present at the venue throughout the event.
The controversy continues to generate online debate, with discussions focusing on transparency in academic presentations and the use of demonstration tools in education. Singh has consistently maintained that there was no attempt to misrepresent the robot's origin—only a genuine effort to inspire students through exposure to advanced AI technologies. This incident highlights the challenges institutions face in balancing promotional enthusiasm with accurate communication in high-stakes environments.
