Reliance Foundation and Central Square Foundation Host AI Edtech Dialogue, Recommend Urgent Reimagination of Education in the AI Era

In January 2026, Reliance Foundation and Central Square Foundation jointly organized a high-level roundtable focused on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Held at the Jio Institute in Navi Mumbai, this event served as an official pre-summit gathering ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The half-day dialogue convened over 50 leaders and experts spanning philanthropic organizations, EdTech companies, academia, and the private sector. Their collective aim was to explore how AI and educational technology can be leveraged to enhance learning outcomes and fundamentally rethink education systems in the rapidly evolving AI era.

The roundtable underscored the transformative potential of AI in reshaping traditional educational models. Participants discussed how AI-driven tools can personalize learning experiences, adapt to individual student needs, and provide real-time feedback to improve educational effectiveness. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of integrating AI ethically and inclusively, ensuring equitable access to advanced learning technologies across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Experts emphasized the need for collaboration between policymakers, educators, technologists, and philanthropists to create frameworks that support AI adoption while safeguarding data privacy and preventing biases.

A key theme emerging from the discussions was the urgency to reimagine education systems to keep pace with AI advancements. The participants advocated for curriculum reforms that incorporate AI literacy, preparing students not only to use AI tools but also to understand their implications critically. Additionally, there was consensus on the necessity of upskilling educators to effectively integrate AI technologies into teaching methodologies. This approach aims to empower teachers as facilitators of AI-enhanced learning rather than mere transmitters of information.

The event also examined the role of EdTech startups and private sector innovation in driving AI adoption within education. By fostering partnerships between startups and public education systems, stakeholders can accelerate the deployment of scalable AI solutions that address local challenges. Moreover, philanthropic organizations expressed commitment to funding initiatives that promote AI-driven educational equity, particularly in underserved regions. This multi-stakeholder engagement reflects a holistic strategy to harness AI's potential while mitigating risks associated with rapid technological change.

Overall, the dialogue at the Jio Institute marked a significant step towards building a shared vision for AI-powered education in India. It reinforced the imperative for immediate action to redesign learning ecosystems that are adaptive, inclusive, and future-ready. As AI continues to evolve, such collaborative forums will be critical in shaping policies and practices that maximize benefits for learners nationwide. The outcomes of this roundtable are expected to inform the broader discussions at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, setting the stage for sustained efforts to integrate AI thoughtfully into education.