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IISc Chief Urges Caution as Universities Embrace Artificial Intelligence

The Director of the Indian Institute of Science has called for a balanced approach to artificial intelligence adoption in higher education, warning that institutions must remain mindful of broader implications even as they harness AI's potential.

LSN India · 31 October 2026

Addressing the third convocation ceremony at Adani University, Indian Institute of Science Director Govindan Rangarajan highlighted the transformative possibilities that artificial intelligence presents for the academic sector. He underscored AI's capacity to facilitate breakthrough discoveries and expedite solutions to complex research challenges that have traditionally required extended periods of investigation.

However, Rangarajan tempered his assessment with a cautionary note, emphasizing that universities must exercise careful deliberation as they integrate AI technologies into their pedagogical and research frameworks. His remarks reflected growing discourse within India's academic community about balancing innovation with responsible deployment of emerging technologies.

The director's address comes amid accelerating adoption of AI tools across Indian higher education institutions, with many exploring applications ranging from personalized learning systems to advanced data analysis. Educational leaders have increasingly grappled with questions about curriculum adaptation, faculty training, and ethical considerations surrounding algorithmic decision-making in academic settings.

Rangarajan's comments suggest that while AI presents significant opportunities for enhancing educational outcomes and research productivity, institutions must develop robust governance structures and ethical frameworks to guide implementation. His stance reflects a broader consensus among senior academics that technological advancement should be pursued with intentionality and foresight regarding long-term societal consequences.