SRINAGAR: The University of Kashmir on Friday hosted a panel discussion on “Future Forward: AI, Innovation and Entrepreneurship”, bringing together students, scholars and faculty members to discuss emerging technologies and their implications for education, research and industry.
Organised in collaboration with Intel India, the programme featured a fireside chat and panel discussion with Gokul V. Subramaniam, President of Intel India and Vice President of Intel Corporation’s Client Computing Group.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor KU Prof. Nilofer Khan highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in education and research, stressing that industry-academia engagement could help bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry requirements.
She outlined the university’s efforts to integrate AI into academics, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, start-ups, administration and governance. She also referred to ongoing work in data science and robotics, underscoring the need for skill development and capacity-building among students and scholars.
During his interaction with students, Subramaniam encouraged them to remain curious, keep learning and strengthen the fundamentals of their respective disciplines as technology evolves.
He spoke about AI’s potential to personalise learning and stressed the need for its ethical use. He also identified aspiration, ability and attitude as qualities sought by industry in prospective employees.
In his welcome address, KU Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal referred to the memorandum of understanding signed between the university and Intel India in May 2024 under Intel’s AI for Future Workforce programme. He said universities had an important role in preparing students to become problem-solvers and contribute to technological development.
Dr Manzoor Ahmad Chachoo moderated the discussion, while Prof. Aijaz A. Wani proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Javed Ahmad Sheikh coordinated the event and conducted the proceedings.
