The Education Promotion Society of India (EPSI) convened a National Conference on ‘The Global Race for AI & Role of Higher Education Institutions for Making India a Global Player’. This significant event gathered thought leaders, policymakers, educators, and innovators to strategise on positioning India as a future global leader in artificial intelligence (AI).

 

The conference addressed the critical need for India to capitalise on its intellectual and institutional strengths in the face of the ongoing AI revolution. Discussions centered on the transformative role of higher education institutions in cultivating talent, fostering research, and driving innovation to support India’s AI ambitions. The conference featured an inaugural session with keynote speeches from prominent figures, including Dr T G Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, and the relaunch of the book ‘The Road Ahead 2.0’. Key panel discussions included: ‘AI in Higher Education: Transforming Learning, Research, and Career Development’ and ‘AI Research & Innovation: Positioning India as a Global AI Powerhouse’. An interactive fireside chat with Dr T G Sitharam and co-authors of ‘The Road Ahead 2.0’ also took place. The conference emphasised identifying practical solutions to bridge the gap between academia and industry, and to foster partnerships that promote AI excellence.

 

Participants explored strategies for India to emerge as a hub for AI research, innovation, and skilled talent, thereby contributing to global advancements in the field. Dr M R Jayaram, President of EPSI & Chancellor of Ramaiah University, stressed the pivotal role of higher education institutions in shaping India’s AI journey. He stated that the conference is a step towards empowering institutions to lead in research and talent development, securing India’s place on the global AI stage. Saba Karim, India Head for Public Sector at LinkedIn, delivered an insightful speech, highlighting LinkedIn’s proactive approach to embracing future changes.

 

She underscored LinkedIn’s dedication to bridging the skills gap and providing individuals with access to learning opportunities and economic prospects. LinkedIn aims to support higher education institutions, government bodies, and organisations in preparing for the evolving demands of the workforce by leveraging data-driven insights into labor market trends. Dr T G Sitharam delivered an inspiring address, focusing on AI’s transformative role in shaping India’s educational and economic future. He emphasised the critical importance of higher education institutions in nurturing AI-ready talent through cutting-edge research, innovation, and curriculum redesign. He outlined AICTE’s vision to collaborate closely with institutions to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring students are equipped with the skills demanded by emerging AI-driven industries.