Jediiians, with enthusiasm and curiosity, immersed themselves in the intellectually stimulating atmosphere of the 18th FICCI Higher Education Summit (HES) 2023, held on November 29-30 at the Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. This annual event, a global nexus of education luminaries and thought leaders, provided a platform for insightful discussions and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas.

FICCI HES A Global Forum for Higher Education

The FICCI Higher Education Summit (HES) has solidified its position as a distinguished global forum, uniting policymakers, scholars, industry experts, thought leaders, government officials, and representatives from international organizations and higher education institutions. The event serves as a melting pot of ideas, fostering collaborations and innovations to shape the future of higher education.

Empowering Minds, Driving Transformation

Under the overarching theme, “Empowering Minds, Driving Transformation: Redefining the Future of Higher Education,” this year’s summit aimed to conceptualize a higher education system that not only equips individuals for the future but also catalyzes positive societal transformation. The discussions and deliberations centered on the evolving landscape of education in the context of rapidly changing global dynamics.

Keynote Addresses Setting the Tone

The summit commenced with impactful keynote addresses from eminent speakers, including Mr. Subhrakant Panda, President of FICCI & Managing Director, and Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Chair of FICCI Higher Education Committee & Prochancellor. These addresses set the tone for the event, emphasizing the need for a visionary approach to higher education that aligns with the demands of the future.

Digital Influence on Higher Education

A highlight of the summit was the compelling special address by Mr. Ashutosh Gupta, Country Manager of LinkedIn India. He shed light on LinkedIn’s pivotal role in higher education and how digital platforms are influencing the entry of youth into the workforce. The discussion explored the evolving dynamics of the job market and the role of digital platforms in shaping career pathways.

Quality Education and Futuristic Skillsets

Prof. Souvik Bhattacharyya, Co-Chair of FICCI Higher Education Committee and Senior Vice President at TCG Crest, addressed the critical issue of ensuring qualitative higher education systems. He emphasized the importance of empowering youth with futuristic skillsets that align with the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. The session provided valuable insights into bridging the gap between academia and industry requirements.

NITI Aayog CEO’s Perspective

The keynote address by the chief guest, Shri B.V.R Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, underscored the pivotal role of higher education in a developing nation like India. With a significant youth population, the CEO highlighted the responsibility of the education sector in shaping the nation’s future. The session explored strategies for aligning education policies with the broader goals of national development.

Exhibition A Knowledge Enclave for Jeddians

Following these enlightening sessions, Jeddians had the opportunity to explore an exhibition where they gained valuable knowledge and insights. The exhibition served as a knowledge enclave, offering a closer look at innovative initiatives, technologies, and educational resources that are shaping the future of higher education.

The 18th FICCI Higher Education Summit proved to be a transformative experience for Jeddians, providing them with a panoramic view of the current trends, challenges, and innovations in the higher education landscape. As they return to their academic pursuits, they carry with them not only insights from influential speakers but also a renewed sense of purpose in contributing to the future of education and societal transformation. The summit exemplified the power of collaboration and dialogue in reshaping the narrative of higher education in India.