Gujarat Technological University (GTU) has announced a new policy that requires all faculty members in its affiliated colleges to complete a certified online course in artificial intelligence (AI). This move is aimed at enhancing the AI skills of educators. The university has made it clear that failure to comply with this directive could lead to faculty members losing eligibility for future endorsements. The registrar of GTU, KN Kher, confirmed that this requirement will affect nearly 10,000 faculty members across the state.
This decision aligns with the guidelines set forth by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), which has declared 2025 as the “Year of AI.” It also supports the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s focus on emerging technologies. The university’s circular stated that the goal is to build AI competency across various disciplines and to prepare a future-ready workforce skilled in AI technologies.
To meet this requirement, faculty members must complete domain-specific AI courses from approved platforms. These platforms include SWAYAM, NPTEL, Coursera, IITs, IIITs, and IISc. Moreover, training provided by the Department of Technical Education will be accepted for government faculty members. After completing the course, faculty members are required to submit their completion certificates to their respective institutes. They must also upload these certificates on the GTU Affiliation portal by June 30.
In addition to this significant policy change, GTU is also addressing challenges within the educational system. Recent reports from the Admission Committee for Professional Diploma Courses (ACPDC) revealed that over 52% of seats in diploma engineering colleges remain vacant. After the second round of admissions, only 28,842 of the 60,804 total seats were filled. The self-financed institutes are particularly affected, with 74.38% of their seats unclaimed.
This situation highlights the need for improved strategies in attracting students to engineering courses. The mandatory AI certification for faculty may be one step towards enhancing the quality of education and making these courses more appealing to prospective students.
The introduction of AI certification for educators is a forward-thinking approach. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of AI in education and the workforce. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for educators to stay updated and equipped with the necessary skills to teach effectively.
GTU’s initiative could serve as a model for other educational institutions in India and beyond. By prioritising AI training for faculty, universities can ensure that they are preparing students for a future where AI plays a central role in various industries. This proactive stance on faculty training is essential in bridging the skills gap and meeting the demands of the rapidly changing job market.
In conclusion, GTU’s requirement for AI certification among faculty members marks a significant shift in educational standards. By investing in the training of educators, the university is taking steps toward enhancing the overall quality of education. This will not only benefit the faculty but also the students, who will receive a more comprehensive and relevant learning experience. As the education sector continues to adapt to technological advancements, initiatives like this will be vital in preparing the next generation for success in an AI-driven world.