International Conference on AI, Spirituality & Education inaugurated in Leh, bringing together global and local voices on technology, education and human wisdom
The International Conference on “AI, Spirituality & Education: Cultivating Human Wisdom in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” was inaugurated at the MIMC Devachan Campus, Leh, bringing together distinguished educationists, university leaders, technology experts, spiritual leaders, policymakers, researchers, social leaders, teachers and students from India and abroad.
The inaugural ceremony commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the Ode to the Triple Gem, symbolising the illumination of knowledge, wisdom and compassion.
In his Welcome Address, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder-President & Spiritual Director of Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre and Founder & Chairman of Mahabodhi Atta Deepo Bhava School, emphasised the need to balance the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence with human wisdom, compassion, ethics and spiritual intelligence.
Reiterating his vision of Integral Education, Guruji highlighted the importance of nurturing the intellectual, emotional, moral, social, physical and spiritual dimensions of every learner, particularly at a time when technology is transforming the way people learn, work and live.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ms. Bhanu Prabha, IAS, Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, UT Ladakh, as the Chief Guest. In her address, she spoke about the central role of education in shaping the future and the evolving challenges and opportunities before the education sector in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The gathering also heard insightful messages from Dr. Hari Krishna Maram, Digital Brand Ambassador and Chairman, Vision Digital India, who spoke about the changing technological landscape and the role of innovation in shaping the future; Ven. Kittipunno from Poland, who brought a spiritual perspective to the dialogue; and Air Commodore Ajay Rathi, Air Officer Commanding, 21 Wing, Leh, who delivered a special message to the students, highlighting the values of discipline, responsibility, leadership and service.
A special highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the formal release of “The Wisdom We Must Cultivate”, authored by Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena. The book reflects Guruji’s continuing concern that humanity must cultivate wisdom, values, compassion and inner development alongside scientific and technological progress.
The inaugural session also featured messages from Ms. Simmi Harding, CEO, Global Education Board, Florida, USA; Shri C. Phuntsog, IAS (Retd.), former Chief Secretary, Government of J&K; and Shri Moh’d Shafi Lassu, President, Anjuman Moin Ul Islam, Leh.
In her address, Ms. Simmi Harding highlighted the importance of preparing learners for a rapidly changing global environment while ensuring that education remains rooted in human values, meaningful human connection and responsible citizenship.
Shri C. Phuntsog, drawing upon his experience in public administration and governance, emphasised the transformative role of education in shaping responsible citizens and stressed the need to approach technological advancement with wisdom, foresight and social responsibility.
Shri Moh’d Shafi Lassu, President of Anjuman Moin Ul Islam, Leh, appreciated the initiative and highlighted the importance of harmony, shared values and inclusive education in building a peaceful and progressive society.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vibrant cultural presentation by the students of Mahabodhi Atta Deepo Bhava School, showcasing Ladakh’s rich cultural traditions and the creativity and talents of the students. The presentation reflected the school’s philosophy of Integral Education, where academic learning is is complemented by cultural, social, creative and value-based development.
The three-day conference, held from 9 to 11 September 2026 in conjunction with the 34th Annual Day Celebrations of Mahabodhi Atta Deepo Bhava School, continued with academic sessions and discussions exploring the opportunities and challenges presented by Artificial Intelligence, and the urgent need to place human wisdom, ethics, compassion and spiritual intelligence at the heart of technological progress
