Artificial Intelligence: Mahatma Gandhi Institute advances digital learning through workshop

The Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI), through its Centre for Technology Enabled Learning (CTEL), hosted a two-day professional workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) on 02 and 03 April 2026 at the Subramania Bharati Lecture Theatre of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI) in Moka.

Held under the theme “The use of AI in Teaching and Learning,” the workshop brings together educators and stakeholders to explore innovative approaches for integrating AI into the education sector, concluding its sessions today.

The opening ceremony, held yesterday morning, was graced by the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, who attended as Chief Guest. Also present were the Commissioner of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Professor Romeela Mohee; the Director of MGI, Dr Veedotma Koonjal, and Associate Professor and Head of CTEL, Dr Adi Sankara Peruman.

The initiative aims to strengthen teaching and learning through the effective use of AI, while promoting blended learning and recognising achievements through the awarding of Developing Blended Learning Courses certificates.

In his keynote address, Minister Sukon highlighted that AI is already part of teaching, learning and assessment and should be embraced as a supportive tool. He stressed that AI goes beyond chatbots and must be used responsibly within clear ethical guidelines. Educators were encouraged to adopt creative approaches, including immersive learning and practical assessments to improve student engagement.

The Minister further noted that AI literacy is now compulsory at tertiary level to help students understand its broader applications such as data analysis, prediction and app development. He outlined ongoing reforms including the introduction of micro-credentials and improved systems to facilitate student mobility. He also emphasised on the need to update curricula meaningfully by integrating AI and modern digital tools.

Moreover, Dr Sukon dwelt on the importance of internationalisation, collaboration among institutions and adapting to technological changes. These measures, he said, are essential to address declining student numbers and to equip learners with future-ready skills.

Professor Mohee, for her part, underlined the significant progress made by the MGI in advancing digital learning through initiatives supporting the use of technology in education. She noted that despite joining at a later stage, the MGI quickly implemented key initiatives, including staff training, strategic planning and the development of quality online learning materials. She also commended the Institute for designing 17 blended courses in various fields which are now available on the National Open Educational Resources Repository, showing that digital learning is not limited to science and technology but also applies to arts and culture.

Professor Mohee further stressed the importance of continuous training for academic staff and highlighted the recent approval of national AI guidelines and regulations to support responsible and effective use of AI in higher education.

As for Dr Koonjal, she stressed the MGI’s commitment to innovation and academic excellence, noting that AI is transforming how education is delivered, assessed and experienced. She recalled that the Institute is actively promoting blended learning and digital pedagogy through CTEL. She also encouraged participants to engage fully in the workshop and continue strengthening their skills to enhance teaching practices.

03 April 2026

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Topics: Technology, Education