The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering under the aegis of the AI Task Force and in collaboration with IETE, hosted an impactful guest lecture titled “Embracing the Greatest Technological Shift of Our Time” on 16.07.2025. Shri. CA.N.V.Natarajan, Chairman Paavai Institutions gave the presidential address. In his address, he insisted that our responsibility as educators, and change-makers is to ensure that we not only keep pace with innovation but lead with purpose. Mrs.Elakkiya AP, Pharmaceutical Technology, introduced the Chief guest. Earlier the welcome address was given by Dr,R,Mohanapriya, Head, ECE.
Mr. Maheswaran Venkatachalam, Engineering Director at Databricks, California, USA, who delivered an engaging and insightful session. His talk shed light on the fast-paced evolution of Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering, while also emphasizing the importance of building a future shaped by innovation and guided by ethics.
He highlighted how AI is revolutionizing diverse industries at an unprecedented pace, far outstripping the adoption speed of earlier technologies which often required significant infrastructure changes. He stressed the importance of integrating AI tools into classrooms, so that students can become familiar with and adept at using these transformative technologies from an early stage. Mr. Maheswaran also urged educators to prepare students to face the real-world challenges of tomorrow’s industry, by equipping them not just with technical skills, but also the critical thinking and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
While answering a question on the role of AI in accelerating India’s transition to Industry 5.0, he cited examples of AI implementations in global industries, such as Rolls-Royce, to illustrate how strategic adoption of AI can drive innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness. He also addressed a question on when the issue of hallucinations in large language models (LLMs) might fade, calling it a “million-dollar question” but expressing optimism that the challenge will be resolved soon as the technology matures.
The convener Dr.R.Mohana Priya, Associate Professor & Head, ECE, the coordinators Mr.S.Loganathan AP,ECE, Mrs.K.Thendral, AP, ECE and 180 faculty members from Paavai Engineering College, Paavai College of Engineering, Pavai Arts and Science College for Women attended the special lecture.
