Beyond Algorithms: Pune Knowledge Cluster’s First AInspire Conversation Explores Creativity in the Age of AI
Pune, 7th October 2026: The Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC) hosted the first conversation under its new public-facing series, AInspire – Artificial Intelligence for Society & Impact, with an engaging session on “Being Creative in the Era of AI” at IISER Pune.
Organised in collaboration with IISER Pune, the inaugural session featured Prof. Sutirth Dey, IISER Pune, who led an insightful conversation on the rapidly evolving relationship between Artificial Intelligence and human creativity.
The session explored how AI is changing the way people create, think and work, while raising important questions around creativity, critical thinking, ethics and human judgement. The discussion went beyond AI’s technical capabilities to examine the technology’s opportunities and limitations, as well as the continuing importance of the human dimension in an increasingly AI-enabled world.
The session witnessed participation from 120+ students, educators and members of the public, providing an accessible platform for diverse audiences to engage with AI and reflect on its wider implications.
Dr Suthirth emphasized on “AI may be the power tool, but intelligence, curiosity and critical thinking are the muscles behind it. The future is not about AI replacing human thinking, it is about humans learning to use AI wisely.”
Gayatri Kshirsagar, Senior Program Manager, Pune Knowledge Cluster, who conceptualised the AInspire series, said, “As AI rapidly becomes part of how we learn, work, create and solve problems, it is important to create spaces for meaningful public conversations about what this transformation means for society. Through AInspire, we hope to move beyond AI as a technology and bring experts and audiences together to explore its opportunities, limitations, ethics and real-world impact across fields such as science, healthcare, climate, environment, education and creativity.”
Speaking about the broader vision of PKC, Dr. Avinash Kumbhar, CEO, Pune Knowledge Cluster, highlighted the importance of creating platforms that bring together academic and research institutions, industry and the wider community.
He emphasised the role of such initiatives in building connections across these ecosystems.
The inaugural AInspire conversation set the tone for the series by placing creativity, curiosity, human judgement and responsible use of technology at the centre of the discussion.
The next talk will be held on 18 November by Prof Ganesh Bagler on “How AI can transform your food?” The details will be published soon on pkc.org.in
About AInspire
AInspire – Artificial Intelligence for Society & Impact is a public knowledge initiative of the Pune Knowledge Cluster designed to foster accessible and meaningful conversations around Artificial Intelligence and its role in science, society and everyday life.
About Pune Knowledge Cluster
Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC) is an initiative under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, working to strengthen collaboration among academic institutions, industry, government and society and promote science, technology, innovation and knowledge-driven development in the Pune region.
About IISER Pune
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, established in 2006, is a premier institute dedicated to teaching and research in the basic sciences. Declared an Institute of National Importance in 2012, IISER Pune integrates education and research to foster scientific curiosity, creativity and innovation.
