Srinagar, June 30: The University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with Intel, on Monday inaugurated a two-day Digital Readiness Workshop for Academic Leaders on the theme "Building AI-Ready Institutions" to promote digital transformation in higher education.

The workshop aims to equip academic leaders with the knowledge and strategic insights needed to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching, learning, research, and institutional governance. The programme focuses on digital leadership, AI for academic excellence, institutional transformation, and the adoption of AI tools and platforms.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, Chief Patron of the workshop, said higher educational institutions must actively embrace AI to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving academic landscape.
"We must acknowledge the paradigm shift in teaching and learning brought about by Artificial Intelligence. Academic institutions can no longer remain passive observers but must adopt technological innovation to stay globally competitive," she said.
Prof. Khan emphasized that the objective of such initiatives is not merely to understand AI but to enable educators and administrators to use it responsibly and effectively in addressing academic and administrative challenges while fostering an innovation-driven ecosystem.
Commissioner Secretary, Information Technology Department, Saurabh Bhagat (IAS), the chief guest, stressed the importance of collaboration among academia, industry, and government to unlock AI's full potential.
He highlighted AI-based initiatives undertaken by the Jammu and Kashmir Government in sectors including healthcare, agriculture, urban governance, infrastructure, and disaster management, noting that AI-driven tools are enhancing public service delivery.
Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal said KU has emerged as a leader in AI-based education by introducing programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Robotics, besides integrating AI-related courses into various B.Tech programmes.
Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, and Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, called for the introduction of AI-oriented academic interventions at the college level to prepare students for emerging technologies from the outset of higher education.
National Program Manager, Intel Digital Readiness Programs, Shatarupa Dasgupta, said AI has become an integral part of every profession and emphasized that digital readiness, visionary leadership, skilled human resources, and strategic planning are essential for building AI-ready institutions.
The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh, while Dr. Manzoor Chashoo presented the vote of thanks.
The workshop will continue with technical sessions, expert interactions, and hands-on discussions on leveraging AI for academic excellence and institutional transformation.