Artificial intelligence could reshape human life, warns Prof. Ehtesham Hussain
Hyderabad: Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to have a profound impact on human life in the coming years, potentially creating challenges across various sectors. This warning was issued by Prof. Syed Ehtesham Hussain, an eminent scientist and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad. He delivered the Azad Day Lecture at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) during the annual celebration of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s birth anniversary on November 11.
Artificial intelligence poses moral and social challenges
Speaking on the impact of artificial intelligence, Prof. Hussain said rapid scientific progress might allow machines to surpass humans in several areas. However, he cautioned that this growth could harm human values. “There can be no substitute for humanity, humility, and compassion,” he emphasised.
He explained that while computers can perform human tasks efficiently, they can never replace human empathy. Therefore, he urged students to balance technical skills with emotional intelligence. Such a balance, he said, is essential to adapt to future challenges.
Prof. Hussain added that artificial intelligence has already become unavoidable in daily life. Hence, public awareness is vital to face its influence responsibly. Referring to the job market, he said most jobs by 2030 would demand AI-related skills. He also shared several examples to explain the scale of technological change.
MANUU celebrates Azad Day with academic reflection
Earlier, Registrar Prof. Ishtiaq Ahmed welcomed the gathering. He noted that the launch of the Digital Multimedia Centre at the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) reflected MANUU’s commitment to Maulana Azad’s educational vision.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Syed Ainul Hasan, who presided over the event, called MANUU’s inclusion in the QS World University Rankings a major milestone. He said the university’s progress resulted from joint efforts by faculty, staff, and students. Moreover, he added that the National Education Policy (NEP) had opened new academic avenues for MANUU.
He encouraged students to work hard and fulfil Maulana Azad’s dream of inclusive education. Meanwhile, Prof. Aleem Ashraf Jaisi, Chairman of the Azad Day Celebrations Committee, presented a detailed report on Azad Day 2025 programmes. Prof. Mohammed Abdul Samee Siddiqui offered the vote of thanks, and Prof. Khwaja Zia conducted the session. The event began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Dr Shakir Raza, Assistant Professor in the Department of Arabic.