At the NXT Summit 2026 on Thursday, a panel of global academics and policy experts discussed how artificial intelligence is set to transform learning systems, urging universities to adapt quickly while safeguarding critical thinking and ethical engagement. The discussion took place during Day 1 of the summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Moderated by Bradley Jordan, Managing Director of the Oxis Society, the session titled “Learning in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” featured K. K. Aggarwal, President of South Asian University; Omar Besbes, Director of the AI and Business Initiative at Columbia Business School; and Hansong Li from American University.
Opening the discussion, Jordan noted that artificial intelligence is reshaping how societies work, govern and learn. For countries like India, where a large young population intersects with rapid technological ambition, the challenge lies in preparing educational institutions for a future where knowledge itself is increasingly influenced by machines.
Professor Li argued that the debate is no longer about whether AI should be used in education but how it should be integrated responsibly. He stressed the importance of ensuring that AI tools empower students rather than undermine creativity, while also raising questions about whose knowledge and values shape the training of AI models. Besbes highlighted that AI is disrupting education much like it is transforming other industries.
While risks exist, he said the technology could enable personalised learning at scale and widen access to knowledge. However, these opportunities would require institutions to rethink teaching methods, assessments and pedagogy, breaking what he described as the traditional inertia of academic systems.
Aggarwal said AI offers a major opportunity to move beyond mass education models by enabling customised learning pathways for individual students. He emphasised that AI should be seen as “augmented intelligence” that enhances human capabilities rather than replacing them.
Panelists also warned that AI could deepen inequalities if access and training remain uneven across societies and countries. Ensuring that students develop critical thinking and the ability to question AI-generated outputs will therefore become an essential educational goal.
The speakers agreed that banning AI in classrooms is neither practical nor beneficial.