Alliance University hosted the second day of the International School Leaders’ Summit 2025, which brought together educators, thought leaders and policymakers to reflect on the changing role of education in an era defined by transformation. The discussions highlighted technology, legacy, and inclusivity as key themes, while also affirming that education must remain rooted in imagination, resilience and cultural values.

Technology and Learner-Centric Education

The day began with a panel discussion on Leveraging Technology to Build Learner-Centric Education, moderated by Prof. K. Kirthan Shenoy of the Alliance School of Law. Panellists explored how technology, though essential, cannot alone determine the future of learning. Dr. Kusala Kumara Jayendra Fernando of Gurukula College called for innovation in public schools to bridge the gap between policy and practice. Dr. Rajeev Kumar Chauhan of the B. K. Birla Centre for Education noted that technology serves as a catalyst but must be guided by ethics and human ingenuity. Dr. Shailaja Jayashankar of Kunskapsskolan underlined the importance of teachers “unlearning” and adapting, while Rajiv Agarwal of Don Bosco School and Eduverse stressed that educators of tomorrow must combine data fluency with empathy.

Following the panel, Dr. B. Priestly Shan, Vice-Chancellor of Alliance University, delivered the keynote address. He encouraged a shift from teaching answers to cultivating questions, reflecting the growing curiosity of Generation Z learners. He emphasised stronger school–university collaborations, responsible integration of AI with teachers as mentors, and the revival of indigenous knowledge through Alliance’s Back to Bharath initiative, which has supported thirty-five startups. Dr. Shan also announced the establishment of a Teacher Learner Centre at the university, envisioning education that is research-led, inquiry-based and morally responsible.

Building Educational Legacy

The second panel discussion of the day, Building Educational Legacy, was moderated by Dr. Julien Paret of the Alliance School of Liberal Arts and Humanities. Speakers focused on values and culture as central to the enduring impact of schools. Ms. Priya Anand of Mount Litera School International emphasised that a school’s legacy is defined by its principles and wellbeing practices rather than curricula alone. Mr. Srivalsan Murugan of Our Own English High School, Sharjah, reminded that schools must evolve to remain relevant, while Dr. Manila Carvalho of DPS Bangalore East highlighted the need to prepare students for both achievement and setbacks. Dr. Jyoti Gupta of K. R. Mangalam World School described schools as foundational to a Viksit Bharat, calling for outcome-based education that nurtures problem-solvers and innovators.

Inclusivity in Education

The final session of the day centred on Inclusivity in Education for a Sustainable India. Pro-Chancellor Abhay G. Chebbi opened the discussion by emphasising that inclusivity is inseparable from justice, equity and empathy. He noted that sustainability in education must draw on social and cultural contexts.

The keynote was delivered by Shri Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Member of Parliament for Mysore and Kodagu. He congratulated Alliance University for convening timely deliberations and called for a revival of Bharatiya philosophies and knowledge systems. He urged educators to embrace diversity and ensure that education remains grounded in indigenous traditions, remarking that India must value its own intellectual heritage rather than look westward.

Closing Reflections

The day concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Ray Titus, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Incubation and Innovation, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Shyam Kishore, Associate Dean at Alliance University. The sessions collectively underscored that the future of Indian education must be technologically supported, value-oriented and inclusively designed to ensure sustainability.