K J Somaiya College of Nursing hosted a national conference that brought together leading voices in healthcare, education, and industry to explore a critical theme: Bridging Technology and Human Expertise: New Era of AI-Driven Healthcare. Organised in collaboration with the Faculty & Staff Development Centre, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the event created a platform where innovation met compassion, emphasising that technological progress must continue to serve human-centred care.
The conference opened with an inaugural session led by Dr Suresh Ukarande, Principal, K J Somaiya College of Engineering; Dr Preeti Rawat, Director, Faculty & Staff Development Centre, SVU; and Dr Avani Oke, Principal, K J Somaiya School and College of Nursing and Conference Chair. Setting the tone for the day, Dr Oke introduced the conference theme, emphasising the imperative of integrating technology while preserving the human essence that underpins ethical and compassionate care. Dr Rawat and Dr Ukarande followed with their perspectives on the rapidly evolving healthcare ecosystem, underscoring the need for institutions and professionals to embrace innovation responsibly.
What followed were three enriching plenary sessions featuring experts who offered deep insights into the evolving role of technology in healthcare practice and education. Plenary 1, delivered by Dr Dhaval Maheta, Professor, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, focused on AI in research. His talk simplified complex concepts and demonstrated how AI tools can strengthen research quality, improve data handling, and support evidence-based clinical decisions. For many attendees, this session provided clarity on how research methodologies are transforming.
Plenary 2 brought in Dr Reshmi Manna, Founder of HR Knowledge Lab, who explored Smart Teaching for Smarter Care. Her presentation addressed the digital health education revolution, showcasing innovative teaching approaches that empower educators and enhance learner engagement. Faculty members and students appreciated the practical strategies she shared for building technology-enabled classrooms and training environments.
The Plenary 3, led by Mr Thamburaj A, Senior Vice President, USV Pvt Ltd, examined data analytics and blockchain technology in healthcare. He highlighted how intelligent data systems can improve efficiency, transparency, and patient trust. His perspective from the industry offered participants a real-world understanding of how emerging technologies are influencing healthcare operations and decision-making at organisational levels.
A key highlight of the conference was the panel discussion titled AI-Driven Transformation in Healthcare: Opportunities, Risks & Equity, moderated by Dr Avani Oke. The panel featured respected experts including Dr Geeta Bhatt, Professor, K J Somaiya College of Physiotherapy; Dr Mrunal Chavan, Vice Principal, P D Hinduja College of Nursing; Dr Usha Nayak, HOD, Department of Pharmacology, K J Somaiya Medical College; and Mr Thamburaj A. Their discussion explored ethical concerns, workforce readiness, access disparities, and the balance between innovation and human expertise. The exchange sparked thoughtful reflections and encouraged collaboration across disciplines.
The conference also showcased academic contributions through scientific paper and poster presentations. Students including Ms Sakshi Dhumal, Ms Simran Mia, and Ms Trupti Mindhe presented their work, with Ms Dhumal securing first place in the student category. Faculty presenters—Ms Jovita Alex, Mr Atish Taukari, and Mr Sanchit Wagh—demonstrated strong research engagement, with Ms Alex taking the top position among faculty.
With 312 participants, the event created a lively space for learning, networking, and collaboration. The conference closed with a clear message: AI may transform healthcare, but its true impact relies on the people who apply it. The discussions reinforced that technology should enhance human expertise, not replace it, ensuring compassionate, ethical care remains at the centre.
Leave a Comment