6th Globalized Education Forum

I had the honour of participating as speaker and moderator in the 6th Globalised Education Forum conducted by Indian Chamber of Commerce, a landmark event dedicated to advancing the dialogue on “Inclusive Education – Promoting inclusivity in education” with a focus on universal design for learning.

The forum’s inauguration, marked by a lamp-lighting ceremony on stage with eminent figures, was both a humbling and proud moment for me. Graced by the presence of Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman AICTE and NETF; Kimmo L., Ambassador of Finland in India; Prof. Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of AICTE & Chief Innovation Officer,MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA; Prof. Amitav Mishra, IGNOU; Prof. Maitree Bhattacharyya, Director JBNSTS, I stood among these distinguished individuals, deeply honored to symbolize our collective commitment to inclusive education.

I was privileged to steer a critical session having excpetional panelist on the theme of “Quality Assurance in Global Education,” featuring esteemed panelists Dr JOSEPH EMMANUEL, Director (Academia) Central Board of Secondary Education; Dr Dr Chetna Sabharwal , Director Association of Indian Principals; Duncan Wilson, MD British Council Education India; and Alok Tibrewal, Pro Vice Chairman of DPS Ruby & Durgapur. Our discussion traversed the challenges and solutions in global education quality assurance, the potential of artificial intelligence for inclusion in school education, and strategies for transforming the School Education System to be more inclusive, accessible, and equitable. Unfortunately, we missed Padma Shri awardee Ms Gowri Ishwaran, who could not join us on the panel due to health reasons.

My session theme –

Quality assurance in global education: Addressing the challenges and solutions, potential of artificial intelligence for inclusion in the context of school education; Innovation to transform School Education System providing Inclusive, Accessible and Equitable Education

Also, meet Padma Shri Prof Najma Akhtar who was part of the other panel, with whom I shared light moments. Meeting other luminaries and listening to their experiences and wisdom added profound depth to the dialogue on education’s future.

Together, we explored various facets of education, including the potential of generative AI to benefit learning environments, ethical and social implications of new technologies in education, and innovative approaches to generating new learning and teaching materials. The discussions extended to inclusivity in higher education, addressing diverse learning needs, and the prospects for generative AI to enhance learning environments, and many more.

I asked my panel members below questions and their answers was exceptionally good. I am in plan to draft their answer soon and will put in a blog.

Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, CBSE Director(Academics):

• Given the evolving landscape of education and entrepreneurship in India, can you discuss how national educational initiatives can be aligned with entrepreneurial ecosystems to foster innovation among India’s youth, contributing to national development? Could you share examples or initiatives where this alignment has been successful?
• With your pivotal role in integrating technology with the examination system, how do you view the global shift towards digital assessment and online learning? How can we ensure these methods enhance educational assessment’s quality and integrity on a national level?

Mr. Duncan Wilson, MD British Council Education India:

• With the rapid advancement of generative AI technologies and the growth of online education, how can we ensure the preservation and strengthening of human values and personal connections in education, one example student-teacher? Can you share international best practices or initiatives that have effectively maintained these values?
• Given your experience across various countries in English teaching and assessment, how do you see the role of English and international languages evolving in the era of AI and machine translation? What steps can be taken to ensure language learning remains relevant if it is necessary?

Dr. Chetna Sabharwal, Director of Assocaition of Principal India:

• Generative AI presents both challenges and opportunities in the educational sector, particularly at the school level where foundational skills and values are instilled. From your perspective, what are the potential impacts of generative AI on transforming education for school students, especially in terms of personalizing learning to address the diverse needs within inclusive classrooms as emphasized by the National Education Policy? How do you suggest we navigate the challenges to fully leverage AI’s possibilities for enhancing educational inclusivity and individual student support?
• In light of your work intersecting education, psychology, and technology, what innovative practices do you recommend for preparing teachers to integrate AI and digital tools effectively, especially to foster critical thinking and creativity among students?

Mr. Alok Tibrewal, Pro Vice Chairman of DPS Ruby & Durgapur.:

• Considering your contributions to educational leadership and philanthropy, with a special focus on initiatives for underprivileged children, could you discuss strategies or methodologies that have been effective? Also, if possible discuss integrating advanced technologies within education to ensure equitable access and enhance learning experiences and narrowed educational divide?
• In your diverse roles, you’ve been at the forefront of educational innovation and strategic partnerships. How do you see public-private partnerships, in particular, transforming access to technology-driven education, not just for underprivileged children but across various demographics? Could you share a specific model of collaboration or an initiative that has improved educational accessibility or quality, demonstrating the impact of these partnerships?

The event was a convergence of visionaries dedicated to shaping a future where education is universally accessible, inclusive, and equitable. I am deeply humbled to have contributed to these vital conversations and inspired by the collective energy towards making inclusive education a reality for all students worldwide.

You can find the list of all speakers and sesison here – https://indianchamberofcommerce.glueup.com/event/6th-globalised-education-forum-gef-2024-95636/

Connect me here – Amitkumar Shrivastava, Head of AI, Global Fujitsu Distinguished Engineer & Fujitsu Fellow