DU launches ‘Coffee with Vice-Chancellor’ to boost student engagement

Delhi University has rolled out a new initiative to strengthen student-administration interaction, with Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh holding an informal discussion with students under a program titled "Coffee with Vice-Chancellor."

The first session took place on the evening of March 16, where 10 students from Miranda House met the VC and discussed a range of academic and contemporary issues.

During the interaction, Singh encouraged students to view Artificial Intelligence as a supportive tool rather than something to depend on entirely.

Responding to a student's query about AI, he advised that one should make AI an assistant rather than a master.

He further noted that while the advent of new technologies often sparks concerns, it is essential to recognize their significance and fully leverage the benefits of new revolutions such as AI.

Citing India's technological achievements, such as the Unified Payments Interface, the VC remarked that the country has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade. He asserted that the nation possesses immense potential to accomplish great things.

"Make AI your assistant, not your master," Singh said during the discussion.

Addressing questions on Value Addition Courses and Skill Enhancement Courses, Singh said the primary aim of education is to nurture responsible and well-rounded individuals.

He emphasized that, along with academic learning, education should instill strong moral values and a sense of patriotism, underscoring the relevance of such courses.

On the role of students in the current era, Singh said the 21st century presents numerous challenges and opportunities. He added that India has set a target to become a developed nation by 2047 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"We require bright minds. We need brilliant daughters." "Over the next 25 years, we must dedicate ourselves to the task of making our nation a developed one. This is the opportune moment, and this is the right opportunity," he added.

The vice-chancellor also spoke about campus safety, stating that efforts are underway to install CCTV cameras across the university to ensure a secure environment for students.

The session was held at the VC’s office and is expected to be followed by more such interactions, according to university officials, on Tuesday.

Rani Abbi, director of the South Campus and moderator of the session, said the initiative aims to give students a platform to directly engage with the vice-chancellor and share their concerns and perspectives openly.