Pune: Artificial intelligence is transforming higher education, but universities must ensure that technology strengthens rather than replaces human judgement, according to Dr Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University).
Learning must go beyond textbooks
Dr Raman said universities should combine strong disciplinary knowledge with practical learning through projects, case studies, laboratories and internships.
He suggested moving away from assessments based heavily on memorisation towards portfolio-based evaluation that measures problem-solving, critical thinking, communication and the ability to apply knowledge.
Industry participation in curriculum design can also help bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace requirements.
Multidisciplinary learning needs real integration
Simply offering subjects from different departments does not create genuine multidisciplinary education, he said.
Real-world projects, jointly taught courses and assignments requiring multiple perspectives can encourage students to connect knowledge across disciplines.
The aim, he said, should be to develop graduates who can combine what they know to address complex problems.
Research must create real-world impact
Dr Raman also called for changes in India’s research ecosystem. Universities, he said, should look beyond publication counts and give greater importance to patents, policy influence, industry adoption and community benefits.
Closer collaboration between universities, industry, government and communities could help turn research into solutions for national and social challenges.
AI needs responsible use
On generative AI, Dr Raman said universities should regulate its use while also teaching students responsible adoption. Rather than simply banning AI, institutions should address ethics, attribution and privacy.
He stressed that assessments must increasingly focus on original reasoning, creativity and judgement in uncertain situations.
The larger goal, he said, is to develop graduates who can use AI effectively without becoming dependent on it — making them not only job-ready, but future-ready and socially responsible.