AI, Innovation, Inclusivity, and Personalised Learning Take Center Stage as Education Prepares for 2026
The year 2025 witnessed transformative shifts in the education sector, with institutions across India and globally embracing innovation, adaptability, and future-ready skills. From universities and management institutes to cutting-edge education platforms, leaders reflected on milestones achieved and outlined their vision for 2026. A strong emphasis emerged on Artificial Intelligence (AI), experiential learning, inclusivity, and global collaboration as key drivers shaping the next chapter of education.
“This year 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 focus on data-driven insights has redefined curricula, encouraging learners to blend computational skills with critical thinking and ethical responsibility. Looking ahead, BIT Mesra will continue to foster a holistic and inclusive ecosystem,” said Prof. Sudip Das, Registrar, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra.
Reinforcing this shift from rote memorization to critical thinking, Mr. Harish Sanduja, Director – Schools and IT, Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, said:
“The introduction of new NCERT textbooks with a reduced curriculum has marked a structural shift in Indian school education. The focus is now on competency-based learning, critical thinking, and skill development. The Kaushal Bodh curriculum for CBSE classes 6 to 8 aligns with the NEP vision, covering modules such as AI, Design Thinking, Financial Literacy, IT, Travel and Tourism, Beauty and Wellness, Handicrafts, and more.”
These changes at both school and university levels signal a larger transformation in the education ecosystem. Institutions are no longer treating reforms as isolated initiatives but as part of a broader movement toward adaptability and relevance. Emphasis on skill-based curricula, integration of emerging technologies, and redefinition of educator roles reflects a sector preparing for a rapidly changing global economy.
“Education is no longer confined to classrooms. It is driven by adaptability, digital integration, and purpose-led learning. Students have embraced resilience and lifelong learning, while educators have adopted innovative, learner-centric approaches. Moving into 2026, the focus must remain on building future-ready skills, ethical leadership, and inclusive growth,” said Prof. (Dr.) Daviender Narang, Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management.
Educators are also optimistic about the Government of India’s decision to establish the Higher Education Council of India (HECI), expected to unify and streamline the regulatory framework for universities and colleges. By replacing legacy bodies such as UGC, AICTE, and NCTE, HECI aims to reduce duplication, enhance transparency, and create a more agile system.
“Management education in India has undergone a paradigmatic shift. AI has evolved from a buzzword to a core strategic tool, requiring students and educators to embrace digital competency alongside ethical leadership. Adaptability is now essential. As we look toward 2026, our focus shifts to purpose-driven innovation, global mobility, and leveraging the HECI framework to elevate Indian higher education,” said Dr. Tapan Kumar Nayak, Director, Jaipuria School of Business, Ghaziabad.
The hospitality education sector has similarly undergone transformation, adapting to technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and changing industry expectations.
“2025 was a year of crucial transformation in hospitality education, driven by technology and industry demands. AI adoption has redefined how students are prepared, balancing human-centered skills with digital proficiency. In 2026, we expect continued emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, and personalized experiences, fostering a global community of hospitality leaders,” said Ms. Anouck Weiss, Chief Communication Officer, Sommet Education.
Echoing this view, Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, MD & Co-Founder, Indian School of Hospitality, added:
“Students now demand learning that is relevant, organic, and aligned with their lives. They behave like CEOs of their own education. Institutions that fail to adapt in 2026 and 2027 risk being left behind.”
Cross-border collaboration has also emerged as a critical trend, with institutions seeking international partnerships to provide students with global exposure and diverse perspectives through research, exchange programs, and digital platforms.
“2025 brought challenges and opportunities for the education sector. AI, personalised learning, global collaboration, and navigating visa norms became key priorities. Resilience, adaptability, and inclusivity emerged as essential for success. In 2026, AI will be at the heart of educational transformation, alongside a focus on cross-border collaboration,” said Mr. Sundar Kumarasamy, CEO & Founder, Excelerate, and Co-Founder, V-Empower Ventures.
Similarly, Mr. Bob Chopra, Founder & CEO, IvySchool.ai, observed:
“2025 marked a new era in AI, coding, and computer science education. Students embraced experiential learning, moving beyond rote methods to problem-solving and interdisciplinary applications. Generative AI tools, project-based coding challenges, and computational thinking became integral. In 2026, we aim to empower students to be future-ready leaders, coding creatively, using AI responsibly, and contributing meaningfully to the digital world.”
Together, these perspectives highlight a sector in transition, redefining the role of educators and institutions. As 2026 approaches, education is poised to move beyond conventional boundaries, ensuring learners are academically prepared and equipped with the skills and leadership capabilities to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
