AI-led shift in business, research & education to be explored at three-day conference of IIM-I
Indore, India – The Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM-I) is hosting its flagship International Conference on Excellence in Research and Education (CERE) from May 2 to May 4, 2026. This three-day event focuses on the significant transformations brought about by artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies in various sectors, including business, research, and education.
Key Themes of the Conference
The conference is centered around several critical themes:
- Digital Transformation
- Sustainability
- Global Disruptions
These themes reflect the urgent need for organizations to adapt to the rapid pace of technological change and the evolving landscape of AI. Over 430 research submissions from 10 countries have been received, highlighting the global interest in the conference’s topics.
Inaugural Address Highlights
During the inaugural address, IIM-I director Himanshu Rai emphasized the importance of research in the context of an AI-driven world. He stated, “Research must go beyond processing information and focus on deeper understanding. While AI excels at processing information, it does not engage with truth. Scholars should reclaim research as a pursuit of deeper understanding and meaning.” This perspective underscores the need for academic inquiry to prioritize ethical considerations and the quest for truth in the age of AI.
Workshops and Expert Sessions
The conference features a variety of expert workshops and keynote sessions designed to foster collaboration between academia and industry. Some of the workshops include:
- Introduction to Response Surface Analysis
- Addressing Economic and Health Inequity through AI and Data Analytics
These workshops aim to equip participants with practical skills and insights that can be applied in real-world scenarios.
Panel Discussions on AI’s Role
One of the highlights of the conference is a series of panel discussions where industry leaders and academic experts will deliberate on the role of AI in modern business practices. Topics will include:
- AI as a Tool vs. AI as a Business Model
- Data Valuation, Ethics, Privacy, and Ownership
- Human-AI Collaboration
Rajhans Mishra, the conference chair, noted that the rapid evolution of technology necessitates a reevaluation of traditional definitions of excellence in research and practice. He remarked, “The evolving landscape of AI raises critical questions that must be addressed to ensure ethical and responsible use of technology.”
Keynote Addresses and Expert Insights
The inaugural day featured a keynote address by Ben Waber from MIT Media Lab, who discussed the changing role of data and AI in management. He highlighted how data-driven systems are transforming organizational design and decision-making processes. Waber’s insights are particularly relevant as industries face rapid technological disruptions, where AI is not only improving efficiency but also redefining business models, workforce dynamics, and value creation.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice
The conference aims to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications. By bringing together researchers, practitioners, and industry experts, CERE 2026 seeks to foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and innovation. The discussions and presentations over the next few days will focus on how AI can be effectively integrated into various sectors to drive positive change.
Conclusion
The International Conference on Excellence in Research and Education at IIM-I serves as a vital platform for exploring the implications of AI in business, research, and education. As organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation, the insights gained from this conference will be instrumental in shaping future practices and policies.
Note: This article is based on the information available as of May 2026 and aims to provide an overview of the themes and discussions expected at the conference.
