World-Class AI Research Hub Marks One-Year Milestone with Global Impact, Visionary Innovation

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Centre for Intelligence of Things (CIoTh), proudly housed at the University of Greater Manchester (formerly the University of Bolton), celebrates its one-year anniversary as a trailblazing force in artificial intelligence, computing, and interdisciplinary research.

Since its official launch on June 7, 2024, at the Senate Building in Bolton, CIoTh has rapidly established itself as a world-class research and innovation powerhouse—pushing the frontiers of knowledge while fostering meaningful global collaboration.

Excellence in Research, Education, and Impact

With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, more than 30 active research intents, and a thriving MRes in AI and Computing programme supporting 66 postgraduate students, CIoTh has become a transformative hub for research and advanced learning. Its strategic focus on real-world applications continues to shape the future of AI, bridging academic innovation with societal relevance.

Global Collaboration, Local Transformation

Spanning continents, CIoTh’s academic and industrial collaborations reach Nigeria (OAU Ife), Côte d’Ivoire (TSB), China, India, Sri Lanka, and across the United Kingdom. The Centre has proudly trained World Trade Organization (WTO) staff and consistently hosts distinguished international speakers and lecturers, enriching the global dialogue on AI, ethics, and sustainable innovation.

Synergy with Industry and Public Service

Through strategic alliances with partners like the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), CIoTh is delivering high-impact data solutions that directly improve emergency healthcare delivery and public sector performance. These collaborations reflect CIoTh’s ethos: technology must serve humanity.

Innovations that Inspire: The Research Kitchen & November to Remember

Among its flagship initiatives, the Research Kitchen is a collaborative laboratory for live research co-creation between students, academics, and industry experts. The Centre also proudly hosts the legendary “November to Remember”, a landmark annual event that convenes brilliant minds to explore bold ideas and reimagine what’s possible.

Next Frontier: High-Performance Computing with SCAN

In a major leap forward, CIoTh has partnered with SCAN to build a cutting-edge High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility, powering large-scale simulations, AI model training, and real-time analytics to support complex research challenges.

Leadership Statement

Speaking at the anniversary, Professor Celestine Iwendi, Head of the Centre, remarked that the AI Eagle has landed.

According to him, “We have taken off with vision, and we will not stop until the Centre reaches the ambitious goals we have set. CIoTh is not just a research unit—it is a global movement of ideas, innovation, and impact.”

The Future is Intelligent

Driven by strategic vision, bold leadership, and a global mindset, Iwendi said that the “centre for Intelligence of Things is not merely preparing for the future—it is architecting it. Researchers, innovators, and changemakers are invited to connect and collaborate via www.ciothings.com.”