AI, Innovation, Inclusivity and Personalised Learning Take Centre Stage as Educational Institutions Prepare for 2026
The year 2025 marked a pivotal phase of transformation for the global education sector, as institutions across India and beyond embraced innovation, adaptability, and a renewed focus on future-ready skills. Universities, management institutes, schools, and next-generation education platforms reflected on the year’s milestones while outlining ambitious roadmaps for 2026, underscored by Artificial Intelligence (AI), experiential learning, inclusivity, and global collaboration.
Reflecting on institutional milestones and the evolving academic landscape, Prof. Sudip Das, Registrar, Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, said,
“This year has been a testament to our commitment to excellence as we marked our Platinum Jubilee, celebrating 70 years of outstanding technical education, with the Honourable President of India gracing the occasion and the 35th convocation held in the presence of the ISRO Chairman. The growing emphasis on data-driven insights has redefined curricula, motivating learners to blend computational skills with critical thinking and ethical responsibility. Looking ahead, BIT Mesra will continue to foster a holistic and inclusive ecosystem.”
At the school education level, leaders highlighted a decisive shift away from rote memorisation towards competency-based learning. Mr. Harish Sanduja, Director – Schools and IT, Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, noted,
“The year 2025 witnessed significant changes in Indian school education, driven largely by the introduction of new NCERT textbooks with a reduced curriculum. The focus has shifted from rote learning to critical thinking and competency-based education. The introduction of the Kaushal Bodh curriculum for CBSE Classes 6 to 8 aligns with the NEP’s vision of skill-based learning, incorporating modules such as Artificial Intelligence, Design Thinking, Financial Literacy, Information Technology, Travel and Tourism, Beauty and Wellness, and Handicrafts.”
These developments across schools and universities signal a broader transformation of the education ecosystem—one where reforms are no longer isolated initiatives but part of a cohesive shift toward relevance, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
Prof. (Dr.) Daviender Narang, Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management, emphasized this evolving philosophy, stating,
“Education today extends far beyond classrooms. It is driven by adaptability, digital integration, and purpose-led learning. Students are learning resilience and lifelong learning, while educators are embracing learner-centric approaches. As we move into 2026, building future-ready skills, ethical leadership, and inclusive growth must remain central to preparing learners for a rapidly changing global economy.”
Educators also welcomed the Government of India’s decision to establish the Higher Education Council of India (HECI), which aims to streamline and unify regulatory oversight by replacing bodies such as the UGC, AICTE, and NCTE. The move is expected to reduce regulatory overlap, enhance transparency, and create a more agile governance framework.
Commenting on this regulatory shift and the growing influence of AI, Dr. Tapan Kumar Nayak, Director, Jaipuria School of Business, Ghaziabad, said,
“Management education in India witnessed a paradigmatic shift in 2025, as AI evolved from a buzzword into a core strategic tool. Adaptability is no longer optional—it is a fundamental currency. As we move towards 2026, the focus will be on purpose-driven innovation, global mobility, and the evolution of HECI as a unified regulator. The spirit of reform, resilience, and reflection must continue to elevate Indian higher education.”
Beyond management and technical education, the hospitality education sector also experienced significant change, driven by technology, sustainability, and evolving guest expectations.
Ms. Anouck Weiss, Chief Communication Officer, Sommet Education, observed,
“2025 marked a crucial transformation in hospitality education, fuelled by technological innovation and changing industry demands. The adoption of AI has reshaped how institutions prepare students, combining human-centric skills with digital expertise. In 2026, sustainability, digital transformation, and personalised guest experiences will remain key drivers of industry evolution.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, Managing Director and Co-Founder, Indian School of Hospitality, remarked,
“Students today are demanding education that feels relevant and aligned with their lives. They are behaving like CEOs of their own learning journeys. As we move into 2026 and beyond, institutions that fail to adapt will be left behind—the balance of power has shifted decisively towards learners.”
Another defining theme of 2025 was the rise of cross-border collaboration, with institutions increasingly engaging in global partnerships, joint research, student exchanges, and digital learning initiatives.
Highlighting this trend, Mr. Sundar Kumarasamy, CEO & Founder, Excelerate, and Co-Founder, V-Empower Ventures, said,
“The year brought both challenges and opportunities, marked by rapid AI adoption, personalised learning, global collaboration, and tighter visa norms. Resilience, adaptability, inclusivity, and lifelong learning emerged as essential pillars. In 2026, AI will be central to transforming education delivery, alongside a strong focus on inclusivity and cross-border collaboration.”
Similarly, Mr. Bob Chopra, Founder-CEO, IvySchool.ai, emphasized AI’s growing role, stating,
“2025 ushered in a new era in AI, coding, and computer science education. Experiential and project-based learning gained prominence, with generative AI tools becoming integral to classrooms. Looking ahead to 2026, the focus will be on empowering students to code creatively, use AI responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to an increasingly digital world.”
Collectively, these perspectives underscore a sector in transition—redefining the role of educators, institutions, and learners alike. As 2026 approaches, education is poised to move beyond traditional boundaries, ensuring that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the skills, adaptability, and leadership capabilities needed to thrive in a dynamic global future.