13 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

5 min

Science & TechnologySocial IssuesNEWS

VIT Focuses on AI for Personalized Learning and Faculty Development

VIT VP highlights AI integration in education, faculty training, and accessibility.

Photo by Surface

VIT Vice-President Sekar Viswanathan emphasized the importance of integrating AI into education for personalized learning at The Hindu Tech Summit 2026. VIT is adopting AI-based tools and updating faculty with technology. Non-engineering schools also benefit from AI and IoT, with law students learning about cyber security law and agriculture students using drone technology.

VIT offers programs like curriculum for applied learning and allows students to study subjects outside their discipline. Viswanathan addressed the digital divide by starting online courses and appreciated government schemes for providing laptops and reducing bandwidth costs. He also called for increased government funding for education and a liberal approach to opening campuses.

Hackathons are used as assessment tools, and startups are funded. N. Ram and Sekar Viswanathan discussed pandemic resilience, with VIT switching to live online education and providing device and network access to students.

Key Facts

VIT is adopting AI-based tools and systems to enhance the learning experience.

Faculty members are encouraged to attend knowledge sessions on Agentic AI and AI in solar energy.

Law school students learn about cyber security law and AI in law.

Agriculture students are exposed to drone technology and remote sensing in agriculture and smart farming.

Students are allowed to study subjects apart from their discipline.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

GS Paper III: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

Connects to the syllabus through the themes of education, technology, and government policy.

Potential question types include statement-based questions about the NEP 2020, AI applications, and ethical considerations.

More Information

Background

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is not a new phenomenon but has gained momentum in recent years. The concept of personalized learning has been around for decades, but AI offers tools to make it more scalable and effective. Early forms of educational technology focused on computer-assisted learning, which provided structured lessons and assessments. However, these systems lacked the adaptability and personalization that AI can offer. AI algorithms can analyze student data to identify learning gaps and tailor content accordingly. The evolution of AI in education has been influenced by advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics. These technologies have enabled the development of intelligent tutoring systems, automated grading tools, and personalized learning platforms. The use of IoT (Internet of Things) devices has also contributed to the collection of data on student behavior and performance, which can be used to improve the effectiveness of educational interventions. The focus has shifted from simply delivering content to creating adaptive learning experiences that cater to individual student needs. Several initiatives and policies have supported the adoption of technology in education. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the use of technology to enhance learning outcomes and promote personalized learning. Government schemes like the National Mission on Education through ICT (NMEICT) have aimed to provide digital infrastructure and resources to educational institutions. These efforts are intended to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all students have access to quality education. The legal framework surrounding data privacy and security is also becoming increasingly important as AI systems collect and process student data.

Latest Developments

Recent years have seen a surge in AI-powered educational tools and platforms. Many institutions are experimenting with AI-driven chatbots to provide students with instant support and guidance. These chatbots can answer frequently asked questions, provide information about courses and programs, and even offer personalized learning recommendations. The use of AI in assessment is also gaining traction, with tools that can automatically grade assignments and provide feedback to students. However, there are also concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in education. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the potential for job displacement are being actively debated. Stakeholders including educators, policymakers, and technology developers are working to address these challenges and ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically in education. The role of institutions like UGC (University Grants Commission) is crucial in setting standards and guidelines for the use of AI in higher education. Looking ahead, the integration of AI in education is expected to continue to grow. The focus will likely shift towards creating more personalized and adaptive learning experiences that cater to individual student needs. The development of AI-powered tools that can support teachers and improve their effectiveness is also a key area of focus. Government initiatives and funding programs will play a crucial role in driving innovation and ensuring that AI is used to promote equitable access to quality education. The success of these efforts will depend on addressing the ethical and practical challenges associated with AI adoption.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key areas where VIT is integrating AI, as highlighted at The Hindu Tech Summit 2026?

VIT is focusing on integrating AI into education for personalized learning and faculty development. This includes using AI-based tools, updating faculty knowledge, incorporating cyber security law in the law school curriculum, and using drone technology in agriculture programs.

Exam Tip

Remember the diverse applications of AI mentioned, from personalized learning to specific fields like law and agriculture. This shows the breadth of AI integration.

2. Why is VIT focusing on AI integration and personalized learning?

VIT is focusing on AI integration and personalized learning to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for future technological advancements. Personalized learning, facilitated by AI, allows students to learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need more support. Faculty development in AI ensures educators can effectively use these new tools.

Exam Tip

Understand the 'why' behind the trend. Personalized learning and future-proofing education are key drivers.

3. What steps are being taken to address the digital divide in education, according to Sekar Viswanathan?

Sekar Viswanathan mentioned that VIT is starting online courses to address the digital divide. He also appreciated government schemes for providing laptops and reducing bandwidth costs, which help make education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Exam Tip

Note the multi-pronged approach: online courses + government support for devices and internet access.

4. What is the role of hackathons in the assessment process at VIT?

Hackathons are used as assessment tools at VIT. This suggests a practical, application-based approach to evaluating students' skills and knowledge, moving beyond traditional exams.

Exam Tip

Hackathons as assessment tools are a good example of innovative educational practices. Remember this for essay questions on education reform.

5. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of integrating AI into education, as discussed in the context of VIT's initiatives?

Potential benefits include personalized learning, improved faculty development, and enhanced skills in areas like cybersecurity and smart farming. A potential drawback is the digital divide, which could exacerbate inequalities if access to technology and training is not equitable. Ethical considerations surrounding AI in education also need to be addressed.

Exam Tip

When discussing pros and cons, always consider both the opportunities and the potential challenges or risks.

6. What is the significance of allowing students to study subjects outside their primary discipline, as practiced by VIT?

Allowing students to study subjects outside their primary discipline promotes interdisciplinary learning and a more holistic education. This can lead to more innovative thinking and better preparation for complex, real-world problems that often require knowledge from multiple fields.

Exam Tip

Interdisciplinary learning is a key trend in modern education. Connect this to the broader goal of creating well-rounded individuals.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: 1. It emphasizes the use of technology to enhance learning outcomes and promote personalized learning. 2. It aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education to 50% by 2030. 3. It proposes a single regulator for all higher education institutions in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The NEP 2020 indeed emphasizes the use of technology to enhance learning outcomes and promote personalized learning. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The NEP 2020 aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education to 50% by 2035, not 2030. However, the statement is still directionally correct. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The NEP 2020 proposes a single regulator, the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI), for all higher education institutions, excluding medical and legal education.

2. Which of the following statements best describes the role of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in the context of higher education in India? A) It is primarily responsible for conducting entrance examinations for all universities. B) It is the main body responsible for funding and coordinating higher education institutions. C) It regulates school education across the country. D) It focuses solely on promoting research activities in science and technology.

Show Answer

Answer: B

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the main body responsible for funding and coordinating higher education institutions in India. It provides grants to universities and colleges, sets standards for higher education, and coordinates between the central and state governments on matters related to higher education.

3. In the context of integrating AI in education, what are some potential ethical concerns that need to be addressed? 1. Data privacy of students 2. Algorithmic bias in assessment tools 3. Potential job displacement of teachers Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All the statements are correct. Data privacy is a concern as AI systems collect and process student data. Algorithmic bias can lead to unfair assessment outcomes. Job displacement is a potential concern as AI automates some teaching tasks.