AI can elevate ordinary workers to exceptional levels, says Bharat Biotech chief

Bharat Biotech International Ltd. executive chairman Krishna Ella has told graduates that artificial intelligence can elevate ordinary workers to perform at exceptional levels, citing quality-control improvements at his own pharmaceutical company.

Speaking at Osmania University's 85th convocation on Tuesday, Mr. Ella said his firm introduced AI in quality assurance and quality control, and found that "people's intelligence has increased". "An ordinary man can perform extraordinarily because of AI, an MBBS doctor in a village is equal to a radiologist or orthopaedic surgeon because of AI," he added.

Innovation and entrepreneurship

Mr. Ella told the young graduates that the future of the country and its development lie with its young population, who should drive innovation, entrepreneurship and national transformation. He identified knowledge, skills and imagination as the key ingredients of innovation, and said entrepreneurs should be passionate about their work and focus on solving problems in society.

The Bharat Biotech chief acknowledged AI's transformative impact but struck a cautious note about the technology. "The only two kinds of companies that will survive are the ones that make AI and the ones that use AI. I don't like AI, but I am part of it now," he said.

He advised the youth to spend less time on social media and use AI positively by asking questions and exploring new ideas. He also cautioned against divisions based on labels such as Gen Z and Alpha, saying Indian society already has enough divisions.

Deep-rooted respect for education

Mr. Ella spoke about India's deep-rooted respect for education, noting that parents often go to great lengths, including selling property and jewellery, to fund their children's education.

Governor and university Chancellor Shiv Pratap Shukla congratulated the Ph.D. scholars and gold medallists, and acknowledged the contributions of their parents, teachers and research supervisors. He urged graduates to become job providers rather than job seekers and stressed the importance of entrepreneurship, self-reliance and collective effort in strengthening the nation. He also called for a concerted effort to make India free from drug abuse and protect younger generations from its harmful effects.

At the 85th convocation, 640 Ph.D. degrees and 71 gold medals were awarded for academic and research excellence. Makla D. of the Department of English received the Governor's Gold Medal for the best Ph.D. thesis. Vice-Chancellor Kumar Molugaram presented the university's report, attributing its achievements to faculty, researchers, students and staff.

Source: The Hindu