Coimbatore: Coimbatore: Teachers and researchers must embrace technological advancements while upholding academic standards and research ethics, Dr. V. Bharathi Harishankar, Vice-Chancellor of Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, said at the Teachers’ Day celebration held at Bharathiar University on September 8.
The programme, held at the Dr. Usha Kirtlal Mehta Convention Centre, was presided over by Bharathiar University Registrar Prof. Dr. R. Rajavel.
In her special address, Dr. Bharathi Harishankar stressed the importance of academic etiquette, research integrity and the responsible use of technology. She cautioned researchers against compromising academic standards to increase publication numbers and urged them to distinguish between genuine journals and predatory, fake or cloned journals.
Speaking on artificial intelligence, she said technology could assist teaching and research but could not replace teachers or researchers. While AI could provide information and process data, teachers played a vital role in inspiring students, encouraging meaningful questions and providing compassion, guidance and human connection, she said.
She added that the use of PowerPoint presentations or the sharing of notes through digital platforms alone could not be considered effective teaching and called for the meaningful use of technology to transform teaching and learning.
Dr. Bharathi Harishankar also urged administrators to remain teachers and lifelong learners and to view administration from the perspective of students, teaching and learning.
Earlier, Prof. Dr. R. Rajavel said Teachers’ Day was not merely an occasion to appreciate teachers but also an opportunity to recognise their dedication, sacrifice and social responsibility. He said education should go beyond the transmission of information and help students develop the ability to think, question, analyse, innovate and become responsible citizens.
He highlighted the growing importance of fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, biotechnology, space science and renewable energy. He also outlined Bharathiar University’s achievements in research and academic development, including ongoing CMRG research projects and students qualifying in national-level examinations.
As of August 1, 2026, the university had 65 international students from 17 countries studying across 19 departments.
The event was attended by Dr. K. Srinivasan, Dean-CDC and Professor in the Department of Physics, who welcomed the gathering, along with Syndicate members and other university officials. The celebration highlighted the need to combine academic excellence, research integrity, technological advancement, human values and social responsibility in building a stronger academic community.
