In an inspiring confluence of ideas, vision, and strategy, JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) held the inaugural edition of its Annual Industry-Academia Conclave, Sangam, under the theme “Talent for Future: Leading Tomorrow’s Workforce.” The event unfolded as a dynamic platform uniting leaders from banking, technology, automotive, hospitality, pharmaceuticals, and human resources to reimagine education and industry synergies for the future workforce.

The forum fostered insightful discussions on the critical skills and competencies needed to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving global workforce. Esteemed panelists brought diverse and invaluable perspectives, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of work. These dialogues not only illuminated emerging trends but also offered clear, actionable strategies to bridge the gap between academic pursuits and industry demands

Mr. H.P. Singhania, Pro-Chancellor of JKLU, inaugurated the event with a keynote address, emphasizing the urgency of aligning academia with industry. “Talent for the future isn’t just about knowledge but adaptability, foresight, and collaboration. Academia must align itself as an incubator of these qualities,” he stated, inspiring an audience of educators, policymakers, and corporate leaders.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the book “Gym of Leadership: Insights for Building Your Leadership Muscles” by Dr. Anil Khandelwal, celebrated author and former Chairman and Managing Director of Bank of Baroda. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Khandelwal remarked, “Leadership is no longer a static trait; it’s a muscle that needs to be built through constant learning and practice.”
 
Engaging Panel Discussions

The conclave featured two thought-provoking panel discussions moderated by Dr. V P Singh, Chairman, Asian Coaching Network:

1. “What are the skills needed in the future (2030-2040)?”
   This session explored emerging trends in AI, sustainability, and leadership, emphasizing agility as the cornerstone of future talent.
2. “How students can prepare for the future, and what JKLU should focus on teaching?”
   Industry leaders deliberated on the need for experiential learning, hybrid skillsets, and democratized knowledge to prepare students for uncharted terrains.

Voices from Leaders

Dr. T V Rao, Founder of TVRLS, delivering the keynote address at Sangam 2024, said, “The workforce of tomorrow requires more than technical skills—it demands adaptability, innovation, and the ability to lead in a world defined by rapid change. Preparing talent for the future calls for a relentless focus on learning and collaboration.”

Dr. Dheeraj Sanghi, Vice Chancellor, JKLU, shared, “In a world where change is the only constant, education must empower students to not only adapt but also lead. At JKLU, we strive to be the launchpad for future innovators and leaders, equipping them with the skills and resilience needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.”

Mr. Prem Singh, Group CHRO, JK Organization, remarked, “The workforce of tomorrow demands a unique blend of technical expertise, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Academia must proactively align with industry to anticipate these shifts, ensuring that today’s students emerge as the architects of a better future.”

The distinguished participants at Sangam 24 included Dr. Ritu Anand, former Chief Leadership and Diversity Officer & Senior VP HR at TCS, Mr. Avinash Rao, Head of India Business at LiveSwitch India, and Mr. Rajesh Sharma, CEO & Director of Urihk Pharma and former President of the Bombay Management Association, who shared insights from their rich professional journeys.
 
Also contributing were Mr. Sanjib Subba, Founder of Kathmandu FinteK, Dr. Gouri Kalra, Associate Director of Sales at Taj Hotels, and Mr. Sethumadhavan Srinivasan, Executive Director at Sheffield Haworth, each bringing unique perspectives on the intersection of industry demands and academic preparation.
 
The panel also featured Ms. Sonal Kapur, HR Head at Esme Consumer, Ms. Jaya Bhateja, Founder and Executive Coach at Abhyudaya Coach, and Mr. Sunit Sinha, Partner and Head – Human Capital Advisory Solutions at KPMG India, who offered forward-looking strategies for workforce readiness. Rounding out the list were Mr. Mukesh Vyas, Principal Consultant at Infosys Limited and former Chairperson of ISTD Jaipur, and Mr. Abhishek Jain, Practice Head at Wipro, whose inputs emphasized the importance of aligning education with emerging industry trends.
 
Collectively, these experts enriched the discussions with their invaluable experience, shaping a holistic and actionable dialogue on preparing talent for the future.
 
Sangam culminated with a powerful takeaway: collaboration is the new currency of progress. The conclave reinforced JKLU’s commitment to pioneering initiatives that prepare students not just for jobs but for leadership roles that shape a sustainable and innovative global future.

With its resounding success, Sangam is set to become a defining annual event, reimagining the intersection of academia and industry.