In a significant push to modernize academic research, a key development program in Goa has highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. The initiative, designed to foster a high-end research culture among college teachers, underscores a major shift towards data-driven exploration.
Embracing the Data Revolution
The faculty development programme was held at Govt College, Quepem, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati. Professor M K Janardhanam, the chairperson of the Goa State Research Foundation, delivered a powerful message on the future of research. He stated that AI and digital technologies are set to have a transformative impact and will fundamentally redefine research methodologies.
Professor Janardhanam emphasized that data is now central to every field. He insisted that mastering big data analytics is no longer optional but necessary for producing meaningful and impactful research. He urged college researchers to view data analysis as a powerful tool to uncover new knowledge and drive societal advancement.
Building a Culture of High-End Research
Echoing this sentiment, College principal Pravina Kerkar noted that we live in an age where data is omnipresent. She affirmed that the ability to effectively interpret this data forms the very foundation of impactful research. Principal Kerkar stressed the importance of researchers continuously familiarizing themselves with emerging technologies like AI to stay relevant and effective.
The five-day training was specifically organized on ‘Data Analysis, Data Visualisation, and AI for Research’ for research scholars and faculty members. Pronamika Buragohain, a project engineer at the Electronics & ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, explained the rationale behind this focus. She said that higher education today demands researchers who can think critically, analyse data intelligently, and apply technology meaningfully to solve real-world problems.
Practical Skills for the Modern Researcher
Professor Renji George Amballoor from Govt College, Quepem, detailed the program's objectives. He said the primary aim was to improve faculty members' research and analytical skills by providing them with practical knowledge and expertise in data analysis, data visualization, and Artificial Intelligence.
He further revealed that the sessions on Artificial Intelligence in research introduced participants to cutting-edge AI tools. These tools are designed to assist with critical research components such as literature review, data analysis, and maintaining ethical research practices. This initiative is a direct implementation of the mandates laid out in the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to build robust research capabilities within India's educational institutions.
