Udupi, November 11, 2024: The Catholic Educational Society of Udupi Diocese (CESU) organized an intensive one-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the Anugraha Pastoral Centre in Udupi, aiming to equip educators with the skills to thrive in an evolving educational landscape. In collaboration with Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore, and powered by the AI learning platform Ailumina, the event gathered education leaders to explore how AI can revolutionize teaching and learning practices.
Rev. Fr Vincent Crasta, Secretary of CESU and Director of Anugraha Pastoral Centre, facilitated the workshop alongside distinguished speakers from the tech and education sectors. Very Rev. Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, Vicar General of the Diocese and CESU Vice President, graced the event as Chief Guest. Emphasizing the transformative potential of AI, Fr Gonsalves said, “Artificial Intelligence has the potential to make education more inclusive and impactful. Through adaptive learning, it enables personalized instruction, ensuring every student’s unique needs are effectively met.”
The workshop attracted principals, headmasters, technical staff from CESU-managed English and Kannada medium schools, and members of the pastoral team, including priests and nuns. It focused on equipping participants with practical AI skills and insights to enrich classroom experiences while maintaining ethical standards in education.
The sessions were led by two prominent AI experts:
Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes – Director of Canara Communication Centre, Google-Certified AI Coach, and media professional
Mr Leo Victor Zalki – Director of Oxidane Enviro LLP, Oracle and Google-Certified AI professional
These facilitators introduced participants to a range of AI tools designed to foster personalized, interactive, and data-driven learning experiences. Core topics included adaptive learning, ethical AI integration, and strategies for using AI to enhance classroom engagement.
“Education today demands innovation,” Fr Fernandes noted, emphasizing that “AI empowers teachers to tailor learning experiences, making education more dynamic and relevant to individual student needs.” Mr Zalki added, “Artificial Intelligence does not replace teachers; it complements their creativity and expertise, allowing them to achieve greater impact.”
The hands-on sessions gave participants practical exposure to AI tools and strategies to implement these technologies effectively in their schools. CESU’s commitment to educational innovation reflects its mission to deliver holistic, value-based education that prepares students for the future.
By integrating AI into its academic framework, CESU is ensuring its institutions are well-equipped to navigate the future of education, promoting excellence and inclusivity in learning across Udupi.