As the world rapidly embraces artificial intelligence, a new conversation is emerging, one that pairs technological capability with moral clarity. AI is transforming industries, workplaces, and everyday life, enabling machines to perform tasks once thought to be uniquely human. But with this unprecedented power comes a critical responsibility: the ability to decide not just what can be done, but what should be done.

At a recent convocation ceremony, national leaders and innovators emphasised that while AI can amplify human potential, it is ethical judgment, empathy, and values that will determine the kind of future we create. They urged graduates to go beyond technical mastery, to harness technology in ways that serve society, solve pressing problems, and uphold human dignity.

VALUES AND LEADERSHIP IN THE AI ERA

Professor Shobhit Mathur, Vice-Chancellor of Rishihood University, emphasised the importance of nurturing leaders grounded in curiosity, purpose, and compassion. “Our guiding values Jigyasa (Curiosity), Chikirsha (Action), and Ananda (Joy) are timeless. They prepare students not just to earn, but to create; not just to succeed, but to serve,” he said.

He highlighted how the university’s curriculum in Entrepreneurship, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Design Thinking integrates academic rigour with societal relevance, preparing students to navigate both technological and human challenges.

TRANSITIONING TO THE REAL WORLD

Chancellor Suresh Prabhu addressed the graduates on the shift from protected campus life to the complexities of the world beyond. “Until now, you were protected first by family and then by the university. The world outside will test you, but that is also where your character will shine. Rishihood has prepared you to not just adapt, but to shape the future with optimism and resilience,” he remarked.

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP AND THE HUMAN ADVANTAGE

In a reflective keynote, Manish Maheshwari, who has led global technology and social media businesses and now invests in AI-first startups through BAT VC, spoke about the irreplaceable role of human judgment in an AI-driven world. “We are entering a world where machines can think, create, and even speak like us, but only humans can decide what should be done,” he said.

He emphasised that technology must never outpace truth. “In a world where execution is instant, the real question is not ‘Can we?’ but ‘Should we?’ Authenticity and empathy will be the true markers of intelligence,” Maheshwari added, introducing the ‘4 M’s of Meaning, Mastery, Mindfulness, and Magnanimity’ as guiding principles for success with integrity in the AI age.

AI UNIVERSITY BUILT FOR IMPACT

Positioning itself as India’s first “Impact University,” Rishihood integrates ancient wisdom with modern innovation. Its multidisciplinary programs in AI, Entrepreneurship, Psychology, Design, and Public Leadership aim to create graduates who are socially conscious and technologically adept.

The 2025 Convocation Ceremony at Rishihood University celebrated 62 graduates across disciplines such as BBA, MBA, BDes, MDes, BA (Education), BA (Psychology), and BSc (Public Health), reflecting the university’s multidisciplinary and impact-oriented academic philosophy.

– Ends