AI is an enabler, not a replacement for teachers: DBMS College Jamshedpur Secretary Sripriya Dharmarajan

Sripriya Dharmarajan urges new teachers to embrace change while preserving the human bond

Teachers’ Day Special

Manpreet Bhatia

Jamshedpur, Sep 5: On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, The Avenue Mail spoke with Sripriya Dharmarajan, Secretary of D.B.M.S College of Education and Board Member of the D.B.M.S Board of Trustees. A gold medallist in MBA from the University of Madras, Dharmarajan has been associated with the D.B.M.S group for two decades. Since 2014, she has played a key role in building D.B.M.S College of Education from its inception.

Stressing that “AI is an enabler, not a replacement for teachers,” she firmly believes technology should support learning without diminishing the human touch, empathy, and guidance that define a teacher’s role. Her mantra for success is simple yet powerful: “Leading and working with a good team of dedicated people.”

In this candid conversation, she reflects on the evolving role of education, the challenges of the digital age, and the timeless values that keep the bond between teachers and students alive.

Q: How do you adapt to the evolving challenges in education today?
Education is changing faster than ever before. Today, classrooms extend beyond four walls into digital spaces and AI-driven platforms. As teachers, we are no longer just providers of information but guides and mentors. I consciously use technology and AI as enablers—not replacements—to make learning engaging and future-oriented. At the same time, I ensure students remain empathetic, responsible, and grounded in values.

Q: How do you measure the growing up years of students then and now?
Earlier generations grew up with simplicity, outdoor play, and experiential learning. Today’s children are born digital, quick, and adaptive. While they have agility and fluency, the challenge is to ensure they don’t lose touch with values, relationships, and emotional balance. Growth today must be measured not only in knowledge but also in resilience and adaptability.

Q: How would you define the success of today’s teaching-learning process?
True success isn’t just in marksheets. It lies in shaping critical thinkers who act responsibly, apply knowledge meaningfully, and display empathy. Education succeeds when it creates citizens prepared for both digital and human challenges.

Q: What advice would you give to teachers entering the profession today?
Teaching today is about shaping futures. Embrace technology, but never let it overshadow the bond between teacher and student. Be curious, compassionate, and lifelong learners. Technology prepares students for the future, but your human touch shapes their values and dreams.

Q: What are your favourite ways to recognize and support the teachers in your college, especially on Teachers’ Day?
We recognize our faculty daily by motivating them, organizing FDPs, encouraging research, and rewarding contributions. On Teachers’ Day, we celebrate teamwork with gifts and a shared lunch, appreciating every teacher’s role in the college’s success.

Q: Share one of your best moments during your teaching days and how has been your bond with the students?

For me, the best moments are when students get placed in reputed institutions. When they return as professionals and share their journeys, I feel immense pride. I see myself not just as a teacher, but as a friend, philosopher, and guide—and my students, past and present, continue to shape who I am today.

In her words and vision, Sripriya Dharmarajan reminds us that teaching is not a static role but a dynamic journey. Every lesson taught is also a lesson learned, making lifelong learning an integral part of teaching. For her, the classroom remains a two-way path—where teachers inspire students, and students, in turn, enrich and redefine the teacher’s own journey.