Artificial Intelligence (AI) must serve as a tool to enhance human intelligence rather than replace creativity, ethical judgement and compassion, eminent architect, educationist, author and philosopher Dr Surindera Singh Bhatti said while delivering the 18th First Friday Forum (FFF) Oration.
The event, held at Sector 10 Government Museum and Art Gallery, also witnessed the launch of eight books authored by Dr Bhatti, the felicitation of five distinguished personalities for their contributions to education, science, art and literacy, and the donation of 24 books for libraries being established across Punjab.
Delivering his oration titled “Education and Artificial Intelligence: From Knowledge to Awakening”, Dr Bhatti described AI as “Frozen Human Intelligence” and emphasised that technological advancement must remain guided by human values. While acknowledging AI’s potential to accelerate research, process information and improve productivity, he stressed that its true worth depended on the wisdom, imagination and ethical responsibility of those using it.
Advocating his philosophy of Holistic Humanism, Dr Bhatti called for integrating Humanities, Art, Science and Technology to create a more meaningful educational system. He said education should move beyond the accumulation of knowledge and specialised skills to nurture creativity, critical thinking, compassion and responsible citizenship.
A major highlight of the programme was the release of eight books authored by Dr Bhatti. Chief Guest Prof Dr RS Bawa, former Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor of Chandigarh University and Advisor to its Chancellor, released The Muse of Metaphors, while Prof Dr IS Dua, former Chairman of the Department of Botany, Panjab University, released Dr Surindera Singh Bhatti (Architect, Poet, Educator, Artist, and Mystic).
Renowned artist and art educator Prof Prem Singh released My Bosom Buddy, while Engineer ML Garg, known for his efforts to establish libraries and promote literacy across Punjab, released Holistic Humanism. Prof Swati Behl Uppal, Principal of the University Institute of Architecture, Chandigarh University, released FUTURELIGHT.
Sardar Jasjyot Singh Almast released Wayward Verses (Covid-19 Creativity in Poetry), architect Surinder Bahga released Town Planning and Architecture in India, and Bengaluru-based architect Navita Singh, an alumna of Chandigarh College of Architecture, released Architecture and Art during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Reign.
In an environmentally conscious initiative, the books were presented in reusable zip-lock pouches instead of conventional decorative wrapping paper, highlighting the importance of reducing waste through simple, sustainable practices.
The Forum also honoured five distinguished personalities for their contributions to their respective fields. The awards were jointly presented by Dr Bhatti, founder of the First Friday Forum, and Mrs Rita Bhatti.
Prof Dr RS Bawa was honoured for Excellence in University Education and Institution-Building, while Prof Dr IS Dua received recognition for Research in Botany and Popularisation of Modern Biology. Prof Prem Singh was felicitated for Art Education, Practice and Promotion, and Engineer ML Garg for Establishing Libraries and Dissemination of Literacy. Prof Swati Behl Uppal received the Architectural Education and its Outreach Award.
In a significant gesture supporting the spread of literacy, Dr Bhatti presented 24 of his books to Engineer Garg for the libraries he is establishing across Punjab. The initiative underscored the Forum’s belief that knowledge becomes truly valuable when shared for the benefit of society.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Dua drew upon his more than four decades of experience in plant sciences to highlight the interconnectedness of life and the importance of ecological sensitivity. He also advocated using AI to expand access to knowledge while preserving human creativity and critical thinking.
Prof Swati Behl Uppal emphasised the need to integrate theory, practice, research and teaching in architectural education. Acknowledging Dr Bhatti’s mentorship, she appreciated his efforts in establishing the First Friday Forum as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and intellectual exchange.
In his concluding address, Chief Guest Prof Dr RS Bawa recalled his association with Dr Bhatti dating back to the 1980s and appreciated his contribution to architectural education and mentorship. He particularly highlighted Dr Bhatti’s efforts to encourage architecture students to develop independent thinking and confidence through public presentations.
Another notable announcement came from architect Surinder Bahga, who informed the gathering that Dr Manita Saxena, Principal of IPSA, Indore, had established a dedicated Dr SS Bhatti Section in the institution’s library. The collection, comprising Dr Bhatti’s books, magazines, manuscripts and other scholarly material, is reportedly valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh. A short video showcasing the collection was also screened.
The programme brought together academicians, architects, scientists, artists, writers, educationists and students. Prof Deepika Gandhi delivered the welcome address, while Harshika Agarwal, Manan Rajput and Navjot Kaur conducted the proceedings. Prof Manisha Jindal and her students provided organisational support.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Engineer Anil Sharma. The 18th First Friday Forum reaffirmed the importance of bringing together technological progress, education, creativity and human values for the advancement of society.
