New Delhi: The Centurion University of Technology and Management, hailing from Odisha, orchestrated an impactful faculty outreach program in Kanpur, drawing the participation of nearly 150 individuals this week. The event, graced by revered teachers, educational experts, and coaching institute leaders, underscored the imperative of integrating skills into education in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Dr. Sukanta Parida, Director of Admissions, Branding, and Marketing at Centurion University, and a keynote speaker at the event, emphasized, “The new Education Policy advocates for futuristic, skill-based education, necessitating collaboration among stakeholders to transform it into reality. Centurion University has been at the forefront of imparting skill education through experiential learning within on-campus industries for over a decade. These industries cover a spectrum from chalk-making to e-rickshaw production, enabling students to traverse the entire journey from ideation to production to commercialization while pursuing higher education. Action learning models of this nature are crucial to ensure a workforce ready for the demands of the industry in the future.”

Dr. Sunil Jha, Director at the School of Paramedics and Allied Health Sciences at CUTM, also addressed the event, shedding light on the abundant opportunities for students in Allied Health Sciences, a sector currently brimming with potential in India. He stated, “With a burgeoning population, the demand for not only doctors but also paramedics, the backbone of the healthcare industry, is on the rise. Universities and educational institutions must facilitate industry exposure, making it mandatory for students to undergo practical training at hospitals. This ensures that these students are job-ready immediately upon graduation.”

The success of the event was further propelled by the support of Avishek Sengar, Regional Manager-UP at Centurion University, Akhilesh Yadav, owner of a coaching institute, and Abhishek Rathore, a prominent Kanpur-based educationist. Their collective efforts contributed to the resounding success of the outreach program. Notable attendees included Manish Singh, Shalendra Diwedi, Satendra Katiyar, and Arun Kumar Pandey, who were honored with Uttariya, an exquisite Odiya handloom masterpiece, recognizing their dedication and contributions to society.

New Delhi: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force within the education industry, reshaping traditional paradigms and enhancing learning experiences. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and data analytics, AI systems have the potential to personalize education, adapt to individual student needs, and optimize teaching methodologies.

From intelligent tutoring systems to automated grading, AI technologies are revolutionizing how educators deliver content and assess student performance. The integration of AI in education holds promise for fostering a more inclusive, efficient, and engaging learning environment, ultimately preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital age. In this regard Sanjeevini Singhal, ObserveNow interacted with Tarun Anand, Founder & Chancellor, Universal AI University.

Here are a few excerpts from the interview:

What made you inclined to enter the education industry?

My journey into the education industry was driven by a confluence of factors rooted in my deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education. Having navigated the dynamic landscape of the global financial industry, I recognised a pivotal need for an educational paradigm that seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology, fosters innovation, and instills a global perspective. This realisation, coupled with my passion for nurturing talent and driving positive change, propelled me towards founding educational institutions.

The establishment of Universal Business School in 2009 and, subsequently, the inception of Universal Ai University in 2023 marked the beginning of my endeavour towards merging AI with education in India.  The idea of creating an institution that not only imparts knowledge but also instills values of sustainability and innovation resonated strongly with me. Aside from that, education, for me, is not just about academic pursuits; it’s about empowering individuals to become innovators and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to the world.

The decision to establish India’s first AI university was a response to the changing dynamics of our times. With the world rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, there was a clear need for an educational institution that could prepare students for the AI-driven future. The passion to contribute to the societal shift towards embracing and understanding AI, coupled with a commitment to environmental and social responsibility, fueled my journey into the education industry.

Why is AI important for the education industry?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a key element in the fourth industrial revolution, and its integration into the education industry is imperative for preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. According to IBM’s global AI adoption index, approximately 35% of companies in the United States have incorporated AI into their operations. In contrast, the utilisation of AI in India still stands at less than 15%, suggesting a significant opportunity for substantial growth in the adoption rates of AI within Indian businesses.

I believe AI can bring a transformative dimension to Indian education by personalising learning experiences, adapting to individual needs, and enhancing the overall efficacy of pedagogical approaches.

AI has the potential to personalise learning experiences, catering to the unique needs and pace of each student and ensuring that no one is left behind, fostering a more inclusive educational environment. It also leads to higher efficiency and productivity.

Moreover, AI enables the development of cutting-edge curricula that align with the evolving demands of the job market. By incorporating AI into education, we provide students with knowledge and abilities that are not only necessary but also relevant in a world where technology is taking over more and more of our lives. The real-world applications of AI, from predictive analytics to personalised feedback, enhance the overall learning experience and better prepare students for the challenges they will face in their professional lives.

What is a significant gap in today’s education service market, and in your opinion, how can it be addressed?

One glaring gap in today’s education service market is the disconnect between traditional curricula and the rapidly evolving needs of the industry. The one-size-fits-all approach to learning does not work anymore. The diversity of student backgrounds, learning styles, and career aspirations demands a more personalised and flexible educational framework. To address this gap, educational institutions must embrace innovative approaches that prioritise experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry relevance.

I also believe that fostering a culture of innovation within educational institutions creates an ecosystem that encourages research, experimentation, and the development of new teaching methodologies. By embracing innovation, institutions can adapt swiftly to changes in the job market and technology landscape, ensuring that students graduate with skills that are not just relevant today but will remain so in the future.

If we look at it holistically, addressing the gaps in the education service market requires a shift towards personalised, experiential, and globally relevant learning methodologies, creating a holistic educational experience that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.