Ganderbal : The Department of Mathematics at the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with Vishwakarma Institute of Technology (VIT Pune), on Wednesday conducted a five-day online Faculty Development Programme (FDP) titled “Mathematical Intelligence: AI Perspectives and Practices” from May 18.
Speaking on the occasion FDP Convener Dr. Haribhau R. Bhapkar emphasized the program’s alignment with the university’s mission to cultivate a well-rounded student personality, which includes academic excellence and intellectual sharpness. He highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering innovative thinking among faculty and students, contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Dr. Bhapkar also announced a notable collaborative achievement between CUKashmir and VIT Pune: the development and patenting of an AI-enabled Smart Oxymeter prototype aimed at saving lives in harsh winter conditions across regions like Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, with plans for a pilot project involving 100 to 500 households. Prof. Parikshit N. Mahalle underscored the increasing relevance of AI in tackling contemporary societal issues and advocated for enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers. He encouraged participants to leverage the FDP as a platform for inspiring innovation and transformative research among students and young scholars. Chief Guest Prof. Vinayak Joshi remarked on the essential role of mathematics as the foundation of science and AI, stressing the necessity of strong mathematical principles for developing ethical and reliable AI systems. He commended the collaborative efforts of CUKashmir and VIT Pune for effectively bridging theoretical knowledge with practical societal applications, aligning with the experiential learning goals of NEP-2020. The FDP featured 16 distinguished keynote speakers from various countries, including Romania, the USA, Denmark, and Dubai, as well as from multiple Indian cities. The program was coordinated by a team of faculty members from both institutions, including D. Namrata Wasatkar and Dr. Virendra Dhotre. The event received accolades from Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean of the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences Prof. C. Naseema, and Director of VIT Pune Prof. Rajesh Jalnekar.
