Pune, Feb 16: In a striking demonstration of how artificial intelligence is reshaping education, the ASM Group of Institutes launched ASM AI Fest 2026 on 9 February with an unprecedented technological showcase: a simultaneous keynote delivered across ten campuses by the AI Digital Twin of Chairman Dr. Sandeep Pachpande.
While the real Dr. Pachpande observed from the wings, his hyper-realistic AI avatar addressed thousands of students, faculty members, and administrative staff at the same time—marking the beginning of a large-scale institutional transformation driven by artificial intelligence.
The initiative is strategically aligned with the Government of India’s IndiaAI Mission and the broader Digital India vision. By embedding AI into everyday academic and administrative practices, ASM aims to contribute directly to the national goal of developing a globally competitive AI-skilled workforce.
Running until 28 February 2026, ASM AI Fest is among the region’s largest academic skilling initiatives, engaging more than 6,000 stakeholders in immersive, hands-on learning. Built around the theme “Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow,” the festival is designed to move beyond awareness and foster practical adoption of AI in teaching, research, learning methodologies, and institutional management.
A distinguishing feature of the initiative is its inclusive approach. Training sessions and workshops are being conducted not only for students and faculty but also for non-teaching administrative teams, recognizing that digital transformation requires participation across the entire institutional ecosystem.
Workshops led by leading AI experts focus on real-world applications, ensuring that graduates develop an “AI-First” mindset—viewing artificial intelligence not as a replacement for human capability but as a tool that enhances it.
The AI Fest also marks the beginning of a long-term transformation roadmap that includes:
- Formation of Institute-wise ASM AI Task Forces to drive sustained implementation
- Establishment of the upcoming ASM AI Centre of Excellence (CoE) for advanced training and research
- Deployment of the Navdrishti App, an in-house automated student lifecycle management platform beginning with AI-enabled placement modules and expanding into academics and finance
- Launch of a PGDM Dual Specialisation Program with AI integration
Together, these initiatives underline that ASM’s AI movement extends far beyond a single festival and represents a sustained institutional strategy.
Addressing the audience during the launch, Dr. Sandeep Pachpande said, “The fear is that AI will replace people. Our philosophy is different: people who use AI will replace those who don’t. This initiative ensures that our students and faculty remain on the winning side of that equation.”
What makes the initiative particularly significant for prospective students and parents is that AI adoption at ASM is being implemented across the entire academic spectrum. From MBA, PGDM, MCA, and Engineering to undergraduate programs, school, and junior college education, AI integration is being systematically introduced to future-proof learners at every stage.
The festival will conclude on 28 February 2026 with a grand closing ceremony across all ASM institutions. Under the leadership of the Chairman and with coordinated efforts from Directors, Deans, and Principals, the group has executed one of the most extensive AI-driven academic initiatives in the region—positioning ASM as a pioneer in AI-integrated education and a future-ready academic destination aligned with India’s national AI vision.