ACWA Panel Discussion Explores How AI Is Transforming Teaching and Learning

Acwa.network - The Association for Collaboration in Worldwide Academia (ACWA) successfully hosted an international panel discussion exploring the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and its implications for teaching, learning, and professional development. Held virtually on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, the panel discussion brought together academics and education professionals from different backgrounds under the theme “AI in Education: Transforming Teaching & Learning — Insights, Experiences, and Perspectives from Across Disciplines.” The discussion explored how AI is reshaping educational practices while creating new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and more inclusive learning environments. Bringing Diverse Perspectives on AI and Education The session was moderated by Dr. Kirti Dang Longani, Incharge CEO of Akemi Group of Institutes and Founder & President of Nextjen Edubiz Global. The panel featured four speakers from different academic and professional backgrounds: Dr. Bina Sarkar from the School of Management, Ajeenkya D Y Patil University, Pune; Dr. Khushali Oza, Senior Faculty and University Director at Nextgen Edubiz Global, Symbiosis; Dr. Preeti Sharma, Associate Professor at Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Management and Entrepreneur Development; and Dr. S. V. Pradeepa from JSPM University, Pune. The diversity of the speakers allowed the discussion to examine AI in education from multiple perspectives, ranging from classroom practices and intelligent teaching tools to financial education and responsible use of AI. From Traditional Classrooms to Intelligent Teaching One of the key perspectives presented during the discussion was the transition from traditional classroom practices toward the use of intelligent teaching tools. Dr. Khushali Oza presented “From Traditional Classrooms to Intelligent Teaching Tools,” highlighting how emerging technologies can influence the way educators approach teaching and learning. The discussion encouraged participants to consider an important question: How might one intelligent tool change the way educators teach their next class? Rather than viewing AI simply as a technological replacement for existing educational practices, the session positioned AI as a tool that can potentially support educators in creating new learning experiences. This perspective also connected with the broader concept of augmented intelligence, in which human capabilities and AI technologies work together. The discussion emphasized that AI can expand human capabilities, while humans remain responsible for providing direction, context, evaluation, and decision-making. From Financial Literacy to AI Fluency Another perspective came from Dr. S. V. Pradeepa, who presented “From Financial Literacy to AI Fluency: Reimagining Finance Education for the Intelligent Age.” Her presentation explored the development of financial education from basic financial literacy toward digital finance, data literacy, AI fluency, and ultimately responsible AI use. The presentation highlighted several interconnected competencies, including understanding money and risk, navigating digital financial platforms, working with financial data, using AI for analysis and forecasting, and understanding when AI should—and should not—be used. The discussion emphasized that AI literacy should not be separated from critical thinking and responsible decision-making. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into education and professional environments, learners need not only to know how to use AI tools but also to understand their limitations and implications. Human Judgment Remains Central A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the relationship between human capabilities and artificial intelligence. The panel highlighted the idea that AI can generate possibilities and support analysis, while humans remain responsible for evaluating information, providing context, and making decisions. This human-centered approach is particularly relevant in education, where technology must ultimately support meaningful learning rather than simply increase technological adoption. The conversation also opened space for participants to reflect critically on how educators can integrate AI without losing the human dimensions of teaching, including judgment, creativity, interaction, and responsibility. Strengthening International Academic Dialogue Through the panel discussion, ACWA provided a platform for academics, educators, and participants to exchange perspectives on one of the most rapidly developing issues in contemporary education. The event demonstrated the importance of cross-disciplinary and international dialogue in understanding AI's impact on education. Rather than approaching AI from a single perspective, the discussion brought together different experiences and areas of expertise to explore how technology can be integrated responsibly into educational practice. The discussion also reflects ACWA's commitment to creating opportunities for academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and international networking among members of the global academic community. As AI continues to evolve, conversations such as this provide an important space for educators and academics to reflect on not only what AI can do, but also how it should be used to support meaningful, responsible, and human-centered education. By: Indah Nurul Ainiyah