When learning meets life

THE WEEK Education Conclave 2026 explores how technology and human values can advance together

- BY KANU SARDA

In an era defined by artificial intelligence and technological disruption, education is increasingly being tested on a fundamental question: how to prepare young people not only for the workplace of the future but for life itself.

As leading educators, policymakers and experts gathered in New Delhi for THE WEEK Education Conclave 2026 on June 10, this concern formed the backdrop to the wide-ranging discussions.

Across the day's deliberations, one idea recurred with clarity. Education cannot be measured only in terms of skills and employability; it must also be judged by its ability to nurture empathy, resilience, curiosity and independent thought. As machines become more capable, these distinctly human qualities are increasingly seen as the real differentiators.

Setting the tone for the day was Dr Jitendra Singh, minister of state (independent charge), science and technology; earth sciences; minister of state in the prime minister's office; personnel, public grievances and pensions; atomic energy; space, who described the present moment as one of the most transformative periods in India's educational history. "The National Education Policy was the game changer," he said, describing it as a framework that has reshaped the way learning is conceived and delivered.