Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant technological concept for Indian universities—it has become a transformative engine reshaping how institutions teach, operate and engage with students. A new EY-Parthenon and FICCI report reveals a sector in motion, where AI adoption is accelerating across learning, administration, research and global outreach. With more than 60% of Indian higher education institutions now allowing students to use AI tools, the country is moving toward a digitally empowered academic ecosystem.
At the heart of this shift is the understanding that AI is not simply a modern learning aid—it is a catalyst for improving access, quality and employability. Dr Vidya Yeravdekar of Symbiosis International University emphasises that AI enables personalised learning experiences, streamlines complex administrative processes, and unlocks innovative research opportunities. This transition is especially significant as universities look to enhance their international presence through AI-supported multilingual services, virtual exchange programmes and personalised admissions processes.
A major takeaway from the report is that AI adoption is expanding beyond traditional tech fields. More than half of surveyed universities now use generative AI to create learning materials, while others rely on chatbots, adaptive learning systems and automated grading tools to modernise education delivery. This shift is not only boosting operational efficiency but also improving student engagement and academic support.
However, India’s higher education landscape still faces a substantial digital divide. While elite institutions advance quickly, smaller and state-funded colleges struggle with outdated infrastructure, limited training and inadequate connectivity. Experts argue that establishing regional centres of excellence and creating shared digital resources could be the key to ensuring equitable, nation-wide access to AI capabilities. The report also highlights the need for blended public–private funding models, as India’s 2025 union budget and various CSR initiatives begin to support AI expansion in education.
Curriculum development is another critical frontier. With 86% of students already using AI tools for learning, universities are embedding AI modules across diverse disciplines—from medicine and law to the arts. Institutions such as Symbiosis International University are pioneering new AI-focused academic programmes and research initiatives, preparing graduates for a future in which AI literacy is essential across every profession.
Yet, the biggest challenge may be faculty readiness. According to the Digital Education Council, only 17% of educators qualify as advanced AI users. Institutions are therefore encouraged to adopt multi-layered training frameworks, combining AI literacy, hands-on workshops and industry-linked mentorships to build confidence and reduce resistance.
AI is also redefining India’s research ecosystem. With nearly half of surveyed institutions establishing dedicated AI research centres, universities are now exploring fields like machine learning, energy applications, agriculture technologies and disaster management. Collaboration between academia and industry is emerging as a powerful driver for innovation—co-created courses, AI clinics and applied research labs are increasingly common, especially in fast-evolving sectors such as healthcare and fintech.
But as AI becomes more integrated, ethical challenges grow. Concerns around data privacy, algorithmic bias and transparency in evaluation systems require strict adherence to regulatory frameworks like UNESCO’s AI Ethics guidelines and India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act. Experts emphasise that responsible AI adoption is essential for building trust and shaping human-centric innovation.
Conclusion: India’s higher education system stands at a pivotal moment. With expanding AI capabilities, growing investments and evolving curriculum strategies, universities are on the path to becoming more inclusive, flexible and globally competitive. If institutions can address ethical concerns, bridge digital divides and strengthen faculty training, AI has the potential to make Indian education not only more intelligent—but profoundly more human.
