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Journalism of Courage
Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist at the World Health Organisation on Friday made a strong case for human ingenuity, which unlike artificial intelligence (AI) she believes, is the true driver of innovation.
“We are often told that AI will take over our work, that it can be creative, can paint and even compose poetry. But human ingenuity, the true driver of innovation, is fundamentally different. So even if AI can read everything, I wonder, can it truly have the same experiences,” Dr Swaminathan reflected at an event held at Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune (Deemed to be University) to celebrate Teachers’ Day.
“While large language models are being developed at a rapid pace, human beings cannot be replaced,” Dr Swaminathan said and recalled how the situation was different in the past.
She admitted that there are newer challenges today, and while it is attractive to sit in front of a computer screen and get succinct replies from ChatGPT, (an advanced AI chatbot developed by OpenAI), no computer or machine can express passion, compassion or empathy nor can they truly motivate and inspire students. “There is nothing that can substitute the depth, insight and creativity of the human mind,” Dr Swaminathan said.
Appreciating college infrastructure and well-equipped skill labs, Dr Swaminathan added that principles and values can only be instilled by teachers. “That is why educators remain irreplaceable. Only individuals with vision and commitment can build great institutions. I am pleased to see the strong focus on research at DPU and was delighted to interact with researchers actively engaged in meaningful projects. It is impressive to see collaborations with other universities and the establishment of dedicated research units,” she added.
Dr. Smita Jadhav, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune in her speech commended how teachers wear many hats. “It is often said that knowledge is important, but it is imagination that truly changes the world. Who better than our teachers to nurture imagination? Teachers do not merely impart facts, they ignite a fire in young minds and build dreams. That is why we honour them today,” Dr Jadhav said adding that they are mothers burning the midnight oil, guardians and mentors shaping ambition.
On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, several awards were presented to honour outstanding contributions by faculty including research award that was conferred upon Dr. Swati Sharma, Dr. P. D. Patil Young Researcher Award for Dr. Sahjid Mukhida, Consistent Performance Award for Dr. Soumya Basu, Innovative Teaching Award to Dr. Bhushan R. Bhagat and other 41 faculty members were felicitated with appreciation awards and certificates.
Also present at the event were Dr. N J Pawar, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, PuneDr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer, Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth Society, Pune. Dr J S Bhawalkar, Registrar and others.
