Use AI as learning tool, not as a substitute for thinking: Microsoft expert

Students should focus on building strong fundamentals, gaining practical experience, developing communication skills and learning to adapt to rapidly changing technology, said Padmanabhan Sundararajan, Principal Group Engineering Manager at Microsoft, Hyderabad.

Addressing students and parents during Freshers’ Day organised by JSS Science and Technology University (SJCE) at the SJCE quadrangle here on Saturday, he urged students to go beyond their syllabus and develop a deeper understanding of core subjects.

“Be curious and explore areas related to your subjects. Build a strong foundation that will stay with you throughout your career,” he said.

He encouraged students to gain hands-on experience by developing real-world applications, websites, software programmes and engineering projects. “Build something, test it, try to break it and learn from the experience,” he said.

On Artificial Intelligence (AI), Sundararajan advised students to use AI as a learning tool rather than depend on it completely. AI can accelerate learning, but students must retain the ability to understand, verify and evaluate its output, he advised.

He also stressed the importance of learning how to learn and adapting to technological changes. “A curious and beginner’s mindset would help students navigate continuous changes in the technology sector,” he added. Communication and collaboration were equally important, he said, urging students to develop teamwork, listening and problem-solving skills alongside technical knowledge.

Mythri Vijayendra, Manager, University Relations (Campus), L&T Technology Services, Mysuru, said consistency, adaptability and a willingness to learn were essential for success. She said students should use their four years to develop technical skills as well as teamwork, problem-solving and communication abilities and also urged students to embrace change, learn from mistakes and remain open to continuous learning. She also advised parents to support their children and give them confidence to make decisions.

Vice Chancellor A.N. Santoshkumar advised students to maintain integrity, be creative and have the right attitude to achieve there goals successfully along with sound technical skills.

C. Nataraju, Principal, SJCE and S.A. Dhanaraj, Registrar, JSS Science and Technology University were also present.