BU Explores Human Touch in AI Age
Times of Bennett | Updated: Feb 17, 2026 15:28
Correspondents: Prabhjot Kaur and Shreya
In today’s fast-changing digital age where AI is changing the way we think about education and careers; many young people are facing opportunities as well as uncertainty.
In light of this, Bennett University organized an exclusive Fireside chat on “The Human Touch in the Age of AI”. Hosted by Professor Dhiraj Singh, Deputy Dean of Times School of Media (TSOM), and Head of Centre for Media and Technology, the session provided students a platform to reflect on the future of humanity in the tech-driven era. Technology offers a significant amount of potential for advancements and efficiency but also leads to serious ethical, identity and human value questions. In such times, meaningful conversations become essential. The session featured three prominent speakers- Christian Grou, Marianne Williamson, and Kunal Dalal- who shared their different perspectives on technology, ethics, and social responsibility. A central theme of the Fireside Chat was the growing influence of AI in everyday life. Even though AI is transforming industries like media, marketing, education, and architecture, the presenters emphasized that advancements must be guided by human values.
AI reflects the mindset, intentions and biases of its creator, according to Kunal Dalal,Agentic Leadership Strategist and AI Parentologist. “We are all parenting AI in today’s world,” he said, stressing that AI picks up on human behaviour just like kids do. He deep dived into algorithms and their impact on society and cultural bias. As a result, it is up to humans to raise AI fairly and use it ethically.
On the other hand, Christian Grou, Founder andCeo , Neutral Digital discussed about a very important topic purposeful innovation. He encouraged students to view technology as an educative tool rather than a substitute. He claimed that no machine can completely replace human strength and its creativity. He emphasized that striking a balance between effectiveness and empathy is where real progress can be made.
While writer of the book ‘A Return to Love’, Mariana Williamson’s reflection on human consciousness and moral evolution in the digital age, added a profoundly philosophical dimension. “As a species we must evolve or we risk failing to exit”, she said, highlighting that machines are never going to save us, only human consciousness can.
The conversation was a dynamic exchange, with students raising urgent concerns regarding security in an AI dominated economy and the moral ethics of AI decision-making. Others raised their worries about how originality and creativity would fare in an automated society. In response, the panel emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool, it must never supersede human intelligence.
They urged students to balance technical proficiency with ethical judgment, highlighting flexibility, critical thinking, and lifelong learning as the ultimate safeguards against deepfakes and online manipulation.
To create a workforce that is safe, equitable, and sustainable in the future, they underscored the importance of fostering digital literacy and encouraging responsible regulation.
They also highlighted the staggering energy demands of data centers, linking digital infrastructure directly to environmental sustainability. They argued that true progress must serve both humanity and the planet, urging organizations to strike a balance between aggressive technological innovation and ecological responsibility.
The Fireside Chat concluded on an inspiring note with a vote of thanks by ProfessorSanjeev Kumar from the School of Liberal Arts, Bennett University, who expressed his gratitude to the speakers, organizers, faculty, and students. The session reminded everyone that while machines may grow smarter, humanity and human consciousness must grow wiser, as today’s youth seek technology that is ethical, fair and inclusive.
In the end, the session reaffirmed that even in the age of AI, it is human values and human consciousness- empathy, responsibility, and awareness- that will define meaningful.
(Prabhjot and Shreya are storytellers who blend insight with imagination. Prabhjot captures the pulse of real experiences with a thoughtful and curious lens, while Shreya weaves emotion and purpose into every word. Together, they create narratives that resonate, influence, and stay with the audience long after.)
In today’s fast-changing digital age where AI is changing the way we think about education and careers; many young people are facing opportunities as well as uncertainty.
AI reflects the mindset, intentions and biases of its creator, according to Kunal Dalal,
On the other hand, Christian Grou, Founder and
While writer of the book ‘A Return to Love’, Mariana Williamson’s reflection on human consciousness and moral evolution in the digital age, added a profoundly philosophical dimension. “As a species we must evolve or we risk failing to exit”, she said, highlighting that machines are never going to save us, only human consciousness can.
The conversation was a dynamic exchange, with students raising urgent concerns regarding security in an AI dominated economy and the moral ethics of AI decision-making. Others raised their worries about how originality and creativity would fare in an automated society. In response, the panel emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool, it must never supersede human intelligence.
They urged students to balance technical proficiency with ethical judgment, highlighting flexibility, critical thinking, and lifelong learning as the ultimate safeguards against deepfakes and online manipulation.
To create a workforce that is safe, equitable, and sustainable in the future, they underscored the importance of fostering digital literacy and encouraging responsible regulation.
The Fireside Chat concluded on an inspiring note with a vote of thanks by Professor
In the end, the session reaffirmed that even in the age of AI, it is human values and human consciousness- empathy, responsibility, and awareness- that will define meaningful.
(Prabhjot and Shreya are storytellers who blend insight with imagination. Prabhjot captures the pulse of real experiences with a thoughtful and curious lens, while Shreya weaves emotion and purpose into every word. Together, they create narratives that resonate, influence, and stay with the audience long after.)
