FWA’s industry and academia 7th annual conclave unite to tackle employability challenges

The 7th Annual Industry-Academia Conclave, organized by the Federation for World Academics (FWA) in collaboration with Education Post News (EPN), took place at the Hyatt Regency in New Delhi on November 9, drawing over 200 influential figures from academia, industry, and entrepreneurship.

Centered around the theme, ‘Employment & Employability: Ascending the Curve,’ the event aimed to address pressing challenges in India’s employability landscape and explore collaborative solutions for workforce development.

Inaugurating the event, Chief Guest Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe, who serves as the Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) as well as National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and National Board of National Board of Accreditation (NBA), delivered a keynote on capitalizing on India’s demographic advantage.

Prof. Sahasrabudhe emphasized the importance of building a skilled workforce to leverage India’s significant youth population, which he views as a potential powerhouse for economic growth. He encouraged key stakeholders to unite in equipping young people with skills needed to drive the nation forward.

Notable academic leaders and industry experts took part in the Conclave, including Dr. Irfan A. Rizvi, President of FWA; Dr. B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu; Prof. Bhimaraya Metri, Director of IIM Nagpur; and Prof. Col. S.S. Sarangdevot, Vice Chancellor of Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth, Udaipur.

Their collective message highlighted the urgent need for collaboration between educational institutions and industries to create a workforce aligned with the evolving demands of the market.

Dr. Irfan A. Rizvi, President of FWA, described the Conclave as a “crucial platform for exchanging insights and forging partnerships.” He noted the diverse gathering of over 200 delegates as a unique opportunity for networking among academics, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs.

Dr. Rizvi also emphasized the event’s role in spotlighting 50 promising startups, each bringing forward innovative ideas with the potential to transform the job market and industry.

Adding to this vision, Dr. B.S. Sahay, Director IIM Jammu shared his thoughts on the need for a strategic roadmap to support India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, referencing India’s ancient reputation as a “Vishwaguru” in education.

Dr. Sahay underscored the importance of research and innovation as catalysts for progress, calling on India’s youth to engage actively in the nation’s development.

Prof. Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Nagpur spoke about the rapid evolution of skill requirements in India’s job market.

He highlighted the need for academic institutions to adapt swiftly to changing industry demands to prepare graduates who are job-ready and capable of meeting modern workforce needs.

Prof. Col. S.S. Sarangdevot of Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth, Udaipur, provided insights on current employment trends, both globally and locally. His address highlighted the critical need for preparing India’s workforce for future challenges in a transforming job market.

A series of 20 panel discussions formed a core component of the Conclave, tackling diverse topics related to employability in the 21st century.

Experts from various sectors discussed the effects of technological advancements, the shifting landscape of required skills, and how to effectively utilize India’s demographic strengths.

Panels emphasized the importance of academia-industry collaboration in bridging the skill gap and ensuring that India’s youth are ready for a competitive global market.

In addition to thought-provoking discussions, the event also recognized outstanding contributions to education and industry with special awards honoring leadership, innovation, and dedication to fostering an employable future workforce in India.

The Conclave underscored the importance of building a workforce that can propel India’s growth and maintain its standing as a global leader in innovation.

This 7th annual gathering affirmed the need for continuous dialogue between academia and industry, ensuring that India’s youth are equipped to thrive in tomorrow’s world.