Keynote SpeakersSugata Mitra is an internationally acclaimed education researcher, education keynote speaker and pioneer of self-directed learning
With a PhD in theoretical physics, he retired in 2019 as Professor of Educational Technology at Newcastle University.
The Times newspaper has described him as a “Global Education Superstar“.
Sugata works in cognitive science, Information Science, and Educational Technology.
His interests include Children’s Education, Remote Presence, Self-organising systems, Cognitive Systems, Complex Dynamical Systems, Physics and Consciousness.
Sugata Mitra: Hole in the Wall Experiment
Sugata conducted the Hole in the Wall experiment in 1999. A computer was embedded within a wall in an Indian slum at Kalkaji, Delhi, and children were allowed to use it freely.
The experiment showed that kids could learn computers quickly without formal training. Sugata termed this Minimally Invasive Education (MIE).
The HIW experiment has been repeated in many places.
He has received many awards and honorary doctorates from India, the UK, the USA, and many other countries worldwide.
Slumdog Millionaire:
The Hole in the Wall experiment has left a mark on popular culture. Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup read about Mitra’s experiment and was inspired to write his debut novel, which became the Oscar-winning movie of 2009 – Slumdog Millionaire.
Sugata Mitra is credited with more than 25 inventions in cognitive science and educational technology.
His groundbreaking work has earned international recognition, including the $1 million TED Prize in 2013 and the Dewang Mehta Award for Innovation in Information Technology.
Originally trained as a physicist, Mitra holds a PhD in Theoretical Solid State Physics from IIT Delhi. His early research ranged from molecular computation and energy storage to biological systems, before his fascination with technology, the human mind and learning led him into computing and education.
A genuine technology innovator, Mitra established India’s first local area network-based newspaper publishing system in 1984, pioneered LAN-based database publishing and helped create the Yellow Pages industry in India and Bangladesh.
He was also an early researcher into simulated neural networks and their potential to understand the mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Sugata Mitra – Education Speaker:
Professor Sugata Mitra is a world-renowned education keynote speaker, researcher and pioneer of self-directed learning.
Famous for his groundbreaking “Hole in the Wall” experiment, Sugata challenges conventional thinking about how people learn and the role technology can play in education.
His fascinating keynote speeches explore the future of education, AI and learning, self-organised learning, digital technology, innovation, creativity and the skills needed for the future of work.
Inspiring audiences to rethink traditional approaches to teaching and learning, Sugata Mitra is an ideal keynote speaker for education conferences, technology events, leadership summits and organisations looking to understand how AI, curiosity and technology are transforming the way we learn.
Sugata’s Speaking topics:
- Role of Technology and Education in a Sustainable Society
- Future of Education
- Cognitive Science
- Self-Organised Learning Environments
- Sustainable Learning
- Youth, Education and Social Transformation
