CII Calls for Inclusive AI Literacy Through Industry-Academia Collaboration

Kolkata: Building inclusive AI literacy through stronger industry-academia partnerships is essential in today’s rapidly changing education landscape, said Pradip Agarwal, CEO, Heritage Institute of Technology, at the second edition of the Educators Conclave organised by CII in Kolkata. He stressed the need for responsible and ethical AI use and urged teachers to evolve from knowledge transmitters into facilitators who guide and empower students. Industry and education leaders also emphasised the importance of critical thinking, creativity and human judgement alongside technology. Natasha Agarwal of OmDayal Group called for a “human-first classroom”, where AI remains an enabling tool rather than the central focus. A masterclass by Nikhil Saraf, Founder & CEO, Freadom Edu, explored practical AI skills for educators. The conclave attracted more than 200 industry stakeholders.