How Automation is Shaping the Future of Education and Women's Empowerment

In a rapidly changing work environment influenced by automation, former UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar emphasizes the need for education to focus on critical skills such as judgment, creativity, and ethical reasoning. Speaking at a national convention, he highlights the importance of transforming information into actionable knowledge and addressing dropout rates, particularly among women. Kumar advocates for a holistic educational approach that fosters critical thinking and practical competencies, aiming for a future where women are empowered to succeed by 2047. Discover how these insights can shape the future of education and women's roles in society.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 7, 2026, 14:49 IST

Transforming Education in the Age of Automation

New Delhi: The landscape of work is evolving rapidly due to the automation of everyday tasks, prompting a shift in focus towards essential skills like judgment, creativity, and ethical reasoning, according to former UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar, who spoke on Saturday.

Kumar's remarks were made during a panel discussion titled Knowledge as Power at the Bharati Naari to Narayani National Convention of Women Thought Leaders, organized by the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti.

He highlighted that significant transformations are occurring in three key areas. The first is knowledge, where an overwhelming amount of information is now accessible. The challenge lies in converting this information into actionable knowledge that can inform our decisions and actions. This requires young people to cultivate critical thinking, questioning skills, and the ability to articulate their observations.

The second area of change is the workplace, where automation is set to replace many routine tasks. This shift necessitates a focus on advanced skills such as judgment, creativity, domain expertise, ethical reasoning, and teamwork.

Kumar, who previously held the position of Vice Chancellor at JNU, pointed out that the third area undergoing rapid change is the power dynamics in society.

Currently, nations that dominate computing, data, and modeling are the ones influencing markets, culture, and societal norms. Thus, it is crucial to educate and empower young people, particularly women, to equip them with the skills needed for success.

He emphasized the importance of addressing dropout rates in both primary and higher education systems, advocating for increased female participation in education.

Additionally, Kumar stressed the need to design curricula that foster critical thinking, practical skills, and holistic education. He argued that education should not merely be about obtaining degrees but about acquiring competencies that can be demonstrated. The goal is to ensure that by 2047, all female students and women are positioned for success.