FICCI FLO, under the leadership of the 42nd National President, Ms. Poonam Sharma, hosted a virtual session, “Reimagining Higher Education: Internationalization, Opportunity & The Future Of Global Careers,” featuring a panel discussion on improving both higher education and job opportunities for young students in India. Ms. Ritika Sarna, Initiative Head, Women In Leadership Roles, served as the day chair for this session.
Ms. Niharika Sondhi, career counselor, founder, and director at Ednet Consultants, served as a moderator for this insightful discussion on higher education opportunities in India and abroad. The following speakers provided insights on curriculum reforms, experiential learning, making informed choices, and global exposure opportunities:
- Dr. M.A. Venkataramanan- Pro Vice Chancellor at Flame University.
- Dr. Aruna Jha- Vice Principal at SRCC- Delhi University.
- Dr. Vishal Talwar- COO at Southampton University- Delhi Gurugram.
- Mr. Ali Imran- Vice President – External Engagement at Ashoka University.
- Mr. Mario Tabarini- Director – Guidance & Recruitment at Bocconi University.
- Dr. Justin Osborn- Marquette Explorer International Dual Enrollment Program.
- Mr. Gaurav Choksi- Executive Director at Hindustan Platinum.
Top Highlights
- Moderator Ms. Niharika Sondhi moderated an insightful panel discussion by asking speakers about how students can choose the right course as per changing industry needs and technological advancements.
- Mr. Gaurav Choksi from Hindustan Platinum stated that students should focus on working on their learning capabilities and non-negotiable skills like communication and ethics for getting good job opportunities. Soft skills are crucial for students to prepare for the future.
- Mr. Mario Tabarini from Bocconi University highlighted the importance of international education and curriculum redesign in order to provide better education to Indian students, as industry needs are changing. In this way, teachers can prepare young minds for a competitive world and achieve success in getting good work opportunities in the future.
- Prof. M.A. Venkataramanan continued the discussion by talking about the required curriculum design for students while giving an example of Flame University. The curriculum should include experiential learning for students in order to provide them hands on experiences through internships and non-profit causes.
- Mr. Ali Imran shared insights on how Ashoka University is preparing its students by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics courses into its curriculum across the board. It will help students in preparing them for the AI-driven workforce and the advanced future. Mr. Imran emphasized making AI education mandatory under the new curriculum.
- Dr. Aruna Jha, Vice Principal at Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, discussed how central universities are adapting to the latest curriculum reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This curriculum focuses on providing skill-based and multidisciplinary education to students in order to help them get good working opportunities in the future.
- Dr. Jha also led a discussion on the importance of internationalization in education. He explained how SRCC has already signed MoUs with 50+ international universities for student exchange programs. Students need to get global exposure through virtual programs, summer abroad opportunities, and research partnerships with foreign universities. Internationalization in education allows students to become intelligent and open-minded global citizens.
- Dr. Justin Osborn from Marquette University discussed the importance of dual enrollment programs and college credits for students. Dual enrollment programs provide exposure to a wide range of courses, which helps them select a suitable option and develop a passion for their future field. Also, Dr. Osborn talked about the credibility and transferability of college credits. Currently, many Indian universities are evolving to recognize and accept credits from foreign institutions to provide opportunities for experiential learning and global exposure.
- Dr. Vishal Talwar spoke about international branch campuses offering international-level higher education to students without relocating abroad. In this way, students receive an exceptional academic experience by enrolling in international universities that open campuses in India to balance global standards with affordability and access. The University of Southampton also offers short internships and industry projects via its campus in Gurugram to introduce internationalization of education under NEP 2020.
- The panelists also discussed factors to consider for students when selecting universities in India and abroad. Students need to first align their passion with the university’s offerings in order to select the right career path. Also, students need guidance from their parents and teachers while making informed decisions about their education and future.
Impact & Outcome
Around 150 participants joined the virtual session and discussed helping students in selecting the right university and course, as per the technological advancements and changing industry needs. Also, the session ended with students sharing their learning experiences at top institutions.
Their feedback underscored the importance of world-class academics at the International University Campus in India. The virtual session is a part of FICCI FLO’s efforts towards bridging gaps between education and employability for young students and women.