A two-day conference titled “Digital Humanities and Decolonising Education in Northeast India: Challenges and Opportunities” was held at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, focusing on critical thinking, data interpretation, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and regional languages. Organized by the Department of English, Capital College of Higher Education, and Cue Academy, Kohima, with support from the Nagaland Department of Higher Education, the conference commenced on February 25 and brought together scholars, educators, and digital humanities practitioners from India, the UK, and Africa.
Deputy Director of Higher Education Medongoi Rhakho, in his address, highlighted the shift from traditional economic power to data-driven control in modern society. “We are now in the age of artificial intelligence, where thinking and data interpretation have become new forms of capital,” he said. He stressed the need for critical thinking and continuous learning to effectively harness digital tools. Delivering the keynote address, Charles Redmon, a lecturer at the University of Essex, UK, spoke about the rise of AI and its impact on language and communication. He noted that while AI technologies are advancing, they often fail to support regional languages, including those spoken in Northeast India. Redmon questioned how AI could better accommodate linguistic diversity and ensure representation for less widely spoken languages.
The conference featured discussions on decolonising education through digital humanities, addressing challenges such as AI-driven educational tools, the impact of digital transformation on indigenous knowledge systems, and the role of technology in reshaping education. Participants engaged in dialogues on how Northeast India can navigate these changes while preserving its linguistic and cultural heritage. With experts from various disciplines and international representation, the event underscored the importance of fostering critical thinking and digital literacy in an era where AI and data influence everyday life. The discussions emphasized the need for inclusive technology that supports diverse linguistic and educational needs, ensuring that digital advancements benefit all communities.
