AI-driven Transformation in Medical Education Underway: Dr. Pulala Chandrasekhar
Research is the foundation of university credibility, says Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences Vice-Chancellor Chittoor, February 20: Dr. Pulala Chandrasekhar, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, said that concrete steps have been initiated to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into medical education, aiming to elevate academic standards through advanced technology. He was speaking during his visit to Apollo Knowledge City, where he attended the Graduation Day programme of Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (AIMSR) as the Chief Guest on Friday. He was accorded a warm welcome by AIMSR Dean Dr. Alfred J. Augustine, Unit Head Mr. S. Balaraj, Associate Dean Dr. Ramya Ramakrishnan, and Dr. Usha S Adiga. Addressing the faculty, Dr. Chandrasekhar commended Apollo Medical College for maintaining high academic and clinical standards. He stressed the need to strengthen structured mentorship systems across medical colleges, particularly through Psychiatry Department nodal officers, to ensure continuous student–faculty engagement. He announced that Tablets would soon be provided to students as part of the State Government’s digital education initiatives. He further stated that AI integration in medical education has already begun on a pilot basis at Siddhartha and Kurnool Medical Colleges and will gradually be extended to all government and private medical institutions. Academic administration systems — including attendance, monitoring, and institutional processes — are being fully digitised and linked to AI-enabled servers. Highlighting the importance of research, he urged universities to take proactive measures to promote scientific inquiry. He announced that January 12 will be observed annually as “Research Day,” with awards instituted in the name of Dr. Yellapragada Subba Rao to recognise outstanding research contributions. Dr. Chandrasekhar also noted that efforts are underway to strengthen public health education through the promotion of Master of Public Health programmes. In this regard, the University has entered into a collaboration with the National University of Singapore and will work with global foundations to enhance public health initiatives. Interaction with Students Later, he interacted with first-year MBBS students and highlighted that Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, established over four decades ago, was India’s first health sciences university. He acknowledged the academic stress faced by first-year medical students and said that the University has introduced structured mentorship frameworks to ensure a stress-free learning environment. He encouraged students to actively participate in sports, yoga, cultural activities, and academic forums, while emphasising the importance of discipline, effective time management, and optimal use of library resources. He also advised students to develop a strong orientation towards research and to remain committed to fulfilling the aspirations of their parents. Quoting former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he urged students to transform their dreams into reality through dedication and perseverance.