Teacher Training Critical for Effective AI Integration in Education: VTU Vice-Chancellor The integration of artificial intelligence into education faces significant challenges, according to S. Vidyashankar, Vice-Chancellor of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU). Speaking at the closing session of a two-day Faculty Development Programme titled “AI for Educators,” he emphasized the urgent need for teacher training to harness AI tools effectively. The event, organized by Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering in collaboration with PALS-IIT Madras, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in education while underscoring the gap between technological availability and practical application. Prof. Vidyashankar cited studies predicting that 85% of existing jobs could undergo significant changes by 2030 due to rapid technological advancements. This shift, he argued, necessitates reskilling across all professions, with educators playing a pivotal role in preparing students for an evolving workforce. While AI-based tools are already being developed to support various sectors, including agriculture, the challenge lies not in creating these technologies but in ensuring their effective use. He noted that many individuals, particularly in rural areas, may lack the capacity to independently utilize these tools, making the role of trained educators and students even more critical. The Vice-Chancellor stressed that teachers must equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to guide communities in adopting AI technologies. For instance, he used agriculture as an example, explaining how AI tools could assist farmers but require trained intermediaries to bridge the gap between innovation and practical implementation.#vtu #s_vidyashankar #vidyavardhaka_college_of_engineering #pals_iit_madras #ai_for_educators
