In an era where higher education must adapt to rapid technological advancements and evolving student needs, Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro-Chancellor of Alliance University, stands out as a visionary leader. A self-described technophile and edupreneur, Chebbi has driven transformative initiatives at Alliance—from pioneering academic digitisation to fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems and aligning with global sustainability goals.
In this exclusive interview, he shares his insights on how universities can remain agile, inclusive, and impactful in a dynamic world. His perspectives offer a compelling roadmap for the future of higher education, blending innovation with a commitment to empowering students and society.
Q: What were the key decisions that shaped academic digitisation at Alliance University?
At Alliance University, we prioritised digital integration early on, digitising all student data and academic processes—from admissions to performance tracking—into a unified platform. This streamlined operations and generated rich data, which we have leveraged using AI-powered tools such as our Learning Experience Platform to personalise student support.
Another pivotal decision was embedding AI across academics and administration. Our MBA programme, for instance, follows an “AI-first” approach, teaching students both the theory and practical application of AI tools like machine learning. Faculty and staff use AI-augmented tools such as intelligent tutoring systems and chatbots to automate routine tasks, allowing them to focus on mentorship.
Finally, we established the Alliance University Technology Business Incubator with a ₹10 crore fund, nurturing over 17 start-up ideas in AI, IoT, and blockchain. This has fostered a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, with more than 300 start-ups founded by our alumni, positioning Alliance as a leader in higher education’s digital transformation.
Q: How do you envision the future of hybrid learning in Indian higher education institutions?
Hybrid learning, blending online and in-person education, is the future for Indian universities. It enhances access and flexibility, aligning with the National Education Policy’s vision of multidisciplinary learning. A student in a remote town can access top lectures online while benefiting from on-campus labs and discussions, making education inclusive and student-centric.
At Alliance, we launched Alliance Online in July 2025 to complement our on-campus programmes. Regulatory changes allowing 40% of credits through online courses enable students to take global courses while enrolled locally. HyFlex models and flipped classrooms will balance online theory with in-person mentorship. Partnerships with edtech platforms will further expand access, creating a globally connected yet locally rooted classroom that produces adaptable, tech-savvy graduates.
Q: How can universities effectively align their missions with global sustainability goals?
Universities must weave sustainability into their curriculum, research, operations, and outreach to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At Alliance, our Vidya Spandana initiative provides full tuition waivers for marginalised students, supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education). We launched a Centre of Excellence in Public Policy, Sustainability, and ESG Research, embedding sustainability across disciplines.
Our pledge for a net-zero carbon campus by 2035 includes solar energy adoption and water conservation measures. Global partnerships in renewable energy and community projects amplify our impact. This holistic approach earned us the #1 rank in India’s National Sustainability Institutional Ranking. Universities should integrate sustainability into all facets, producing ethical leaders who can address planetary challenges.
Q: With generative AI reshaping learning, how should educational institutions adapt curriculum and pedagogy to prepare students for an AI-driven future?
Universities must integrate AI literacy across disciplines, ensuring students can use AI tools effectively and ethically. At Alliance, our MBA and technology programmes teach AI applications while emphasising digital fluency.
Pedagogy should shift towards critical thinking and creativity—skills AI cannot replicate. Students engage in projects and debates to analyse AI outputs, not just produce them. We teach AI ethics and data privacy to address issues like plagiarism and bias. Faculty use AI to automate routine tasks, allowing them to focus on mentorship. Assessments now prioritise open-ended tasks over rote learning. By harnessing AI as a learning partner, we ensure students amplify their abilities, preparing them for an AI-driven world.
Q: What are the core benefits and challenges of global partnerships in higher education today?
Global partnerships enrich universities by offering students and faculty international exposure through exchanges and joint degrees. Alliance’s 80+ partnerships with institutions such as Toulouse Business School enable transformative experiences and collaborative research in areas like sustainable development.
However, aligning curricula, navigating cultural barriers, and managing regulatory hurdles such as visas pose challenges. Our Office of International Affairs ensures seamless collaboration, aiming for 100 outbound and 50 inbound student exchanges by 2026. When managed effectively, partnerships transform universities into global knowledge hubs, far outweighing logistical challenges.
Q: How can Indian universities become more agile in embracing emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics?
Indian universities must adopt an innovative mindset, updating curricula annually with industry input. Alliance’s AI and data science programmes were designed using this model. Faculty training and the inclusion of industry adjuncts keep education current, while partnerships—such as our Google Cloud initiative—enhance infrastructure.
Flexible governance, with dedicated innovation committees, enables rapid adoption of tools such as AI-based proctoring. A fail-fast attitude encourages iterative pilots. Agility ensures universities produce graduates who are not merely tech consumers but innovators, ready to shape the future.
Q: What role do Executive Education and Continuing Learning programmes play in bridging the skills gap in India’s workforce?
Executive Education and Continuing Learning programmes rapidly upskill professionals in areas such as AI and data analytics, addressing India’s skills gap. Alliance offers tailored courses for sectors like machine learning, designed with industry input for practical relevance.
These programmes foster lifelong learning, reaching working adults through flexible formats. Collaborations with companies ensure alignment with workplace needs, while government initiatives like SWAYAM complement university efforts. By promoting continuous learning, these programmes enhance India’s workforce competitiveness, preparing millions for a dynamic economy.
Q: As a technophile and edupreneur, how do you perceive the rise of edu-start-ups in India and their role in the evolving edtech ecosystem?
Edu-start-ups are revolutionising education by democratising access and personalising learning through AI and gamified tools. They reach millions, with India’s edtech market projected to hit $30 billion by 2030.
Start-ups complement universities by filling gaps in tutoring and skilling, pushing institutions to innovate. Alliance partners with such platforms to expand our reach. However, start-ups must prioritise quality over aggressive marketing. Their role as enablers—collaborating with universities—creates a blended ecosystem that offers learners more choices and drives educational innovation.
Q: How must leadership in higher education evolve to keep pace with rapidly changing student needs and technological trends?
Higher education leaders must be visionary, agile, and empathetic. They should champion innovation, as we have done at Alliance through digital transformation, and adopt agile decision-making to test new ideas. Empathy ensures student-centric policies, including mental health support and inclusivity.
Collaborative leadership connects academia, industry, and communities. Leaders do not need to be tech experts but should be tech-aware, empowering advisors to drive change. By leading with vision, agility, and compassion, they ensure universities shape a future where students thrive.
Q: How do you see universities fostering entrepreneurial thinking and innovation ecosystems within their campuses?
Universities should create incubators like Alliance’s Technology Business Incubator, supported by a ₹10 crore fund that has backed 17 start-ups in AI and IoT. Entrepreneurship courses across disciplines, hackathons, and project-based learning encourage initiative and problem-solving.
Mentorship from alumni and industry, along with flexible policies such as course credits for start-up work, fosters innovation. Celebrating achievements through awards and demo days builds a culture of entrepreneurship. With over 300 alumni start-ups, Alliance demonstrates how universities can serve as launchpads for innovators.
Q: What are your key recommendations for integrating skill-based learning into mainstream academia?
Embed 21st-century skills such as digital literacy and critical thinking into curricula using hands-on projects and internships. Alliance’s moot courts and industry projects exemplify this approach. Offer vocational modules within degree programmes, such as digital marketing certifications.
Assess skills through portfolios and real-world tasks rather than traditional exams. Involve industry in course design to ensure relevance. Teach adaptability as a meta-skill, preparing students to learn independently. This approach, aligned with NEP 2020, ensures graduates are job-ready and versatile.
Q: What leadership values and principles have guided your professional evolution?
My leadership is guided by vision with purpose, innovation, empathy, integrity, and social responsibility. I focus on transforming lives through education and embrace continuous learning to stay ahead of trends like AI.
Empathy drives student-centric initiatives, such as scholarships and mental health support. Integrity ensures ethical decision-making, while social responsibility fuels programmes like Vidya Spandana. These values have shaped Alliance’s growth, keeping us aligned with our mission to empower students and society.
Abhay G. Chebbi’s leadership at Alliance University offers a blueprint for navigating the complexities of modern higher education. His emphasis on digital innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurial thinking reflects a commitment to preparing students for a dynamic future.
By fostering agility, inclusivity, and global collaboration, Chebbi ensures Alliance remains at the forefront of educational excellence. His values—vision, empathy, and integrity—remind us that universities are not merely academic institutions but transformative forces for societal good. As higher education evolves, leaders like Chebbi inspire institutions to empower students to lead with purpose and impact.
