IIT-Mandi Director Asserts No Curriculum Revamp Needed Despite AI Advancements

Laxmidhar Behera, the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi, dismissed the need for a revamp in engineering college curricula due to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He argued that AI and associated tools have not reached a stage where they can effectively educate students in scientific concepts and possibilities. Behera emphasized the limited understanding of human cognitive processes, questioning the feasibility of creating systems when such processes are poorly understood.

In an interview with PTI, Behera expressed skepticism about AI’s capabilities, citing the example of ChatGPT, which, in his view, lacks true understanding and operates by gathering information from extensive data. He acknowledged AI’s potential for enhancing certain aspects but maintained that it cannot replace the core disciplines of engineering.

Behera labeled the notion of AI replacing engineering disciplines as hype, acknowledging the uncertainty of its duration but expressing confidence that every phase has its end. Despite ongoing discussions about reimagining education in the AI era, Behera downplayed the significance of AI in reshaping engineering college curricula.

In terms of IIT Mandi’s expansion plans, Behera outlined the goal to increase faculty strength to over 300 and student strength to over 5,000 in the next five years, reflecting the institute’s commitment to growth and development.