Transforming Higher Education in India: Insights from Vibha Mahajan of Wiley

In an exclusive interview with The Hans India, Ms. Vibha Mahajan, Senior Director of Learning at Wiley in India, shared her valuable insights on the evolving landscape of higher education in the country. As one of the world’s largest publishers and a global leader in research and learning, Wiley is renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality content and resources that empower learners and educators worldwide. During the conversation, Ms. Mahajan highlighted the key challenges facing India’s education system, the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in learning, and Wiley’s innovative approaches to supporting learners in the competitive STEM and UPSC exam preparation markets.

Current State of the Indian Education System

As a leader in higher education, Ms. Mahajan expressed her primary concerns regarding the current state of the Indian education system. With over 58,000 institutions, India boasts the second-largest higher education system in the world, enrolling millions of students annually and significantly increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER). The diversity of institutions, ranging from prestigious central universities to regional colleges, offers a wide array of academic programs.

However, despite the positive developments, challenges persist. Ms. Mahajan identified several pressing issues, including limited access to higher education, the unavailability of quality and relevant content, students’ over-reliance on guide resources, outdated teaching methodologies, and a gap between academic offerings and employer demands. She emphasized that while these challenges are significant, they also present opportunities for growth. With the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at enhancing accessibility, equity, and quality, India is on the path to becoming a burgeoning global education hub.

The Role of AI in Higher Education

Given the rapid advancements in technologies like AI, Ms. Mahajan envisions a transformative evolution in the higher education landscape. AI has the potential to revolutionize education by personalizing learning experiences, enhancing accessibility, and fostering innovation. Adaptive learning platforms and intelligent tutoring systems are already tailoring education to meet individual needs, making learning more engaging and accessible for diverse learners through features like language translation and transcription.

However, Ms. Mahajan cautioned that ethical challenges, such as bias and privacy concerns, must be addressed. By carefully designing AI systems and protecting student data, the education sector can ensure that AI benefits all students and contributes to a more equitable world. Wiley is committed to embracing AI’s potential responsibly, guided by four core principles: human oversight, trustworthiness and transparency, safety and fairness, and governance and accountability.

Wiley’s Contribution to Learners and Educators

Wiley, as one of the world’s largest publishers, plays a crucial role in supporting learners and educators in India. With over two centuries of experience, Wiley delivers industry-leading content, services, platforms, and knowledge networks tailored to meet the evolving needs of researchers, students, instructors, professionals, institutions, and corporations.

On the learning front, Wiley offers a diverse range of academic resources, including books, e-books, courseware, and exam preparation materials, which are preferred by learners and institutions across the country. Ms. Mahajan emphasized Wiley’s commitment to providing quality resources that are relevant, accessible, and aligned with industry demands.

In-Demand STEM Disciplines in India

With the growing global appetite for STEM-related content and learning, certain disciplines are witnessing a surge in popularity among Indian students. According to a NASSCOM report, the Indian IT industry is expected to generate 2 million jobs in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics by 2025. Disciplines such as computer science, data science, cybersecurity, and engineering are increasingly attracting learners, driven by the country’s digital transformation and emphasis on technological innovation.

Wiley caters to this demand by offering a comprehensive range of resources across STEM disciplines, including data science, machine learning, analytics, and artificial intelligence. The content is designed to stay in sync with industry trends, equipping learners with the knowledge and expertise required to thrive in a competitive job market.

Wiley’s Entry into Exam Preparation

Wiley’s recent entry into the competitive exam preparation market in India, particularly for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Prelims stage, marks a strategic endeavor to support civil service aspirants. The initiative began with the launch of practice and mock tests for the UPSC Prelims, catering to both English and Hindi-speaking learners nationwide. Wiley has since expanded its offerings to include a wide range of English textbooks covering subjects such as History, Geography, Economics, and Art & Culture.

What sets Wiley apart in this competitive landscape is its integration of technology into learning. The AI Tutor, initially piloted in management programs, is now integrated with UPSC titles, providing real-time feedback, breaking down complex problems, and delivering tailored practice. This innovative approach allows UPSC aspirants to prepare smarter, focus on improvement, and gain a deeper understanding of the material—essential in such a competitive exam environment.

Conclusion

As India’s higher education system continues to evolve, the insights shared by Ms. Vibha Mahajan underscore the importance of addressing existing challenges while embracing the transformative potential of technology. Wiley’s commitment to providing quality resources and innovative solutions positions it as a key player in shaping the future of education in India. By focusing on learner feedback and integrating advanced technologies, Wiley aims to empower students and educators, ensuring that they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern educational landscape.