In Lucknow, Governor and Chancellor of state universities Anandiben Patel addressed the rapid changes of the present era, urging adaptability and ethical vigilance in the age of artificial intelligence. Speaking at the concluding session of the two-day workshop "AI Manthan 2026: Challenges and Opportunities in AI in Higher and Technical Education," she highlighted both the potential and pitfalls of AI technology.
AI: A Necessity with Dual Edges
Governor Patel stated, "AI is a necessity today," but cautioned against its misuse. She pointed out that while AI offers positive applications, it has also been exploited to spread misinformation in society. "Several incidents have come to light where AI has been used to spread misinformation, so it is essential to motivate children to use it correctly," she emphasized. Patel stressed the importance of educating youth on proper AI usage and implementing penalties for those who abuse the technology.
Collaborative Research and Resource Development
During her address on the AKTU campus, Patel underscored the need for collaborative efforts in research. "Students want to conduct research, and all should work together in this direction," she said. She proposed that with collective work and AI assistance, any book could be translated, and there are no limits to research possibilities. The governor advocated for preparing and distributing department-specific books to universities to help resolve academic issues, while also encouraging independent work.
Workshop Insights and Future Steps
Patel advised sharing experiences from the AI Manthan workshop with teachers and involving research students in ongoing AI initiatives. The event, jointly organized by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University and Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University in Kanpur, featured experts discussing AI's potential in Uttar Pradesh's higher education sector. Key takeaways included:
- AI is indispensable in the current educational landscape.
- Its application can yield accurate results and simplify complex processes.
- AI holds significant promise for enhancing higher and technical education.
The workshop concluded with a consensus on AI's critical role, aligning with Patel's call for ethical integration and innovative research in academia.
