Making India The Powerhouse Of AI

Kashish Saxena Aug 28, 2024

To educate engineers for an AI-driven society, experts advocate for continual learning and educational reform that strikes a balance between tradition and technological innovation

BW Businessworld

As artificial intelligence (AI) advances, its impact on engineering becomes more significant. In light of the rapidly transforming realm of this phenomenon the incorporation of AI into engineering methods is projected to move engineers' responsibilities from mundane tasks to more complicated, creative problem solving. This trend needs a redesign of engineering education to better prepare students for the changing context. A recent panel discussion provided insight on how artificial intelligence is altering engineering education. Experts from academic institutions emphasised the importance of engineers adapting through continuous learning and curriculum reform to meet the demands of an AI-powered future, at fourth edition of BW Education Engineering Excellence Conclave.

Prof Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, talked about the significance of retaining a strong educational foundation despite the emergence of AI. He highlighted that, while AI is a valuable tool, it should complement rather than replace human capabilities. By saying this he pointed out the importance of universities in fostering research and providing information that drives technological breakthroughs. "Universities are designed to foster knowledge creation. After a long period of time, that information becomes skill. I don't believe AI would have progressed to this point without a broader understanding of academia. We must recognise that institutions are primarily designed for research and knowledge development, and India is currently missing from the grid," Behera stated.

Addressing the practical consequences of AI, Dr Thammi Reddy Konala, Dean, School of Engineering & Sciences, GD Goenka University, emphasised the importance of curriculum improvements. He proposed that AI concepts be included into engineering education across all specialisations to ensure a thorough grasp. "In the coming days, artificial intelligence will take over routine duties. "We need to advance our curriculum because AI is going to increase our comfort levels," Reddy claimed. He also mentioned that students are increasingly aware of the gap between traditional degrees and the skills needed in the industry, which educational institutions and the government are attempting to shorten positively.

The conversation also addressed the importance of lifelong learning and flexibility. Prof (Dr) Deependra Kumar Jha, Vice Chancellor, Manav Rachna University, emphasised that engineers must constantly upgrade their abilities in order to remain relevant in a quickly changing sector. He mentioned that educational institutions must update their teaching approaches to promote adaptation. "If we want to be the world's AI powerhouse, we must go pro-AI. As a result, colleges are implementing the essential adjustments in teaching approaches," Jha stated. He also predicted that traditional universities could develop, implying that old approaches may no longer be adequate.

Dr Reeba Korah, Professor and Dean, Alliance University, Bangalore, added another depth to the topic by discussing how AI might improve engineers' creativity and strategic focus. While AI may do duties such as data analysis and report generation, it frees developers to focus on more inventive areas of their work. "AI could be used to be more creative," Korah said, echoing a general idea that AI should supplement rather than replace human abilities.

The panel also discussed how traditional degrees' value is shifting in comparison to skill-based education. While degrees remain vital for first job placements, there is a rising trend towards more adaptable, skills-focused programs that provide students with relevant competencies rapidly. This mirrors a larger trend of adjusting educational techniques to meet the needs of a continuously changing technology context.

India's rich engineering skill pool and proactive government initiatives position it to be a suitable participant in artificial intelligence development. To fully realise this potential, a coordinated effort between academia and industry is required. By adopting innovative educational models and cultivating a culture of continuous learning, India can train its engineers to flourish in an AI-driven future, ensuring they are prepared to utilise and drive innovation in a quickly changing environment.