The School of Agriculture, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, inaugurated a seven-day online Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on "Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for Effective Teaching, Assessment, and Academic Research in Agriculture” on 16th July, 2026.
The programme was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh Bahuguna, Hon'ble Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University. In his inaugural address, he emphasized that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a technology of the future; rather, it has become a necessity of the present. He encouraged every teacher to upgrade their knowledge and skills continuously, particularly in the field of AI. He further advised the participants that AI should not be relied upon completely, instead, it should be used as an assistant to enhance human capabilities rather than as a replacement for human intelligence. He quoted several examples of AI integration in administrative and professional works, and highlighted its potential to save time, improve work efficiency, and streamline routine tasks. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of ensuring authenticity and ethical use of AI-generated outputs.
Prof. Rajendra Prasad, Director, School of Agriculture, informed that the various eminent experts from prestigious institutions, including NIT Jalandhar, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology (GBPUAT), VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture & Forestry, Amity University, CV Raman University, and Uttaranchal University, will deliver expert lectures on the uses of AI tools for effective teaching, assessment, and academic research in agriculture during the various technical sessions of the FDP that will continue till 22nd July. He further informed that more than 100 participants, including faculty members, scientists, researchers, and research scholars from across the country have registered in this programme. He expressed confidence that the FDP would provide an excellent platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and meaningful discussions on the responsible and effective integration of AI into agricultural education and research.
