Age Is Just a Number: Lifelong Learners Empower Themselves with AI and ML at IIIT-L

A group of educators aged 50 and above is embracing Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, demonstrating that age poses no barrier to lifelong learning. This article explores the transformative impact of IIIT-L's program on participants' careers and skillsets.

Embracing the Future: Lifelong Learning in AI and ML at IIIT-L

The pursuit of knowledge knows no age limits, a fact beautifully illustrated by a recent program at the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Lucknow (IIIT-L). The AICTE QIP PG Program on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has attracted a diverse group of educators aged 50 and above, proving that age indeed is just a number when it comes to learning new skills and adapting to technological transformations.

A wide range of educators diving into AI and ML learning

Among the participants is Prof. Ramesh Chandra Kashyap, a 53-year-old faculty member from Kolkata. With a robust background in Electronics and Communication, having graduated from IIT Roorkee and earned a PhD from California State University, he views this program as a golden opportunity to reinvent his skill set. Prof. Kashyap, despite his vast experience, is keen to explore the realms of AI and ML, aiming to enrich his research and broaden his expertise.

Similarly, Prof. BD Jadav from Pune, 46 years old, exemplifies the program’s impact. With a wealth of knowledge in Electronics and Telecommunication, he acknowledges the critical role that AI and ML play in today’s technological landscape. He describes the course as a “game changer,” enhancing his understanding of Python and AI/ML applications. For him, adapting to emerging trends is the real challenge, and he believes the program equips participants to meet this head-on.

The program encompasses various participants, including those from unconventional fields. Notably, Dr. K. Shiv Kumar, 39, hails from a background in Chemical Engineering in Rajamundry, Andhra Pradesh. Initially feeling out of place, Dr. Kumar has successfully merged AI/ML concepts into his area of expertise, showcasing the growing interdisciplinary relevance in today’s tech environment.

Other notable participants include Alka Verma and Vibha, both in their mid-40s and hailing from Moradabad and Gwalior, respectively. Despite their long-standing academic careers, their determination to dive into a completely new arena such as AI and ML highlights their unyielding quest for knowledge.

The program promotes skill enhancement across diverse sectors

Scheduled to run from July to December 2024, this initiative aims to upskill faculty from non-Computer Science/Information Technology backgrounds across India. It opens doors for educators to master AI and ML, regardless of their previous experience or age. As educators increasingly recognize the importance of these skills, the program serves as a vital tool in bridging the gap in knowledge and expertise within this transformative field.

In conclusion, the AICTE QIP PG Program demonstrates that the desire to learn and grow is limitless. As participants engage with AI and ML, they not only enhance their own knowledge but also contribute to their fields and to the continuously evolving landscape of technology. Age may define the years lived, but it does not dictate the capacity for learning and adaptation—an inspiring reminder for us all.

As these educators pave the way for innovation, they exemplify the spirit of lifelong learning that is essential in today’s rapidly advancing world.