AI as the New HR Backbone: Automation Process, Enhancing Decisions

Industry Seminar | Department of MBA | 5 February 2026

The Department of MBA, Sona School of Business & Management, successfully hosted a high-impact industry seminar on “AI as the New HR Backbone: Automation Process & Enhancing Decisions.”

The session brought together 120 MBA students and faculty members to explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming Human Resource Management from a support function into a strategic, data-driven powerhouse.

The seminar was delivered by Dr. M. Arun, Vice President & CHRO, Ideassion Technology Solutions, who shared practical insights from the corporate world, bridging academic understanding with live industry applications.

Purpose of the Program

To expose MBA students to the real-time integration of Artificial Intelligence in HR functions and decision-making frameworks, ensuring they understand not just the concept of AI—but its business impact.

The session aimed to shift the learning lens from “What is AI?” to “How is AI shaping managerial roles today?”

Objectives of the Program

• To understand the evolution of HR from traditional systems to AI-enabled frameworks
• To explore automation in recruitment, performance management, and workforce analytics
• To examine AI-supported decision-making models in people management
• To analyze ethical and governance considerations in AI adoption
• To identify emerging competencies required for future HR leaders

Industry Perspective

Dr. Arun shared live corporate examples demonstrating:

• AI-driven resume screening and talent analytics
• Predictive models in employee retention
• Automation of HR workflows and performance tracking
• Data-backed leadership decisions

Students gained exposure to how organizations are already using AI tools to enhance productivity, reduce bias, and drive strategic outcomes.

The interaction reinforced a key insight: In today’s corporate world, HR leaders are expected to be data interpreters, automation strategists, and ethical decision-makers—not just administrators.

Key Outcomes

By the end of the session, students were able to:

• Understand how AI is applied in recruitment, performance evaluation, and workforce analytics in real organizations
• See how dashboards and automation tools influence everyday HR decisions
• Recognize the shift of HR from administrative support to a strategic business function
• Reflect on risks related to bias, privacy, and accountability
• Identify the skills to build now including analytics literacy, technological adaptability, ethical judgment, and strategic thinking

More importantly, students walked away with clarity. HR today is not just about managing people. It is about making informed decisions using intelligent systems.

A Learning Ecosystem Beyond the Classroom

At Sona School of Business and Management, industry integration is built into the MBA experience.

When corporate leaders step into our classrooms, students do not just listen. They question, discuss, and connect theory to real business situations. That is where learning becomes meaningful.

An MBA should go beyond preparing students to secure jobs. It should prepare them to take ownership, make decisions, and lead with confidence in complex business environments.

At SONA, we shape managers who understand technology, think responsibly, and lead with relevance.

If you are looking for an MBA that connects classroom learning with corporate reality, this is where your journey begins.