Inaugural Session: Redefining Skilling & Learning in the Digital Era: Empowering Future Leaders in J&K
The inaugural session of the ArdorComm – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 set a visionary and impactful tone for the event, bringing to the forefront critical conversations around future-ready education, skilling, and employability in the digital age. Delivering the Welcome Address, Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor, ArdorComm Media Group, emphasised the need for collaborative innovation and multi-stakeholder partnerships to build a digitally empowered, inclusive, and resilient education ecosystem for Jammu & Kashmir. The session was graced by the Guest of Honour, Shahzad Alam, IAS, Director – Employment & Skill Development and MD – Mission YUVA, Government of J&K, who highlighted the government’s progressive initiatives and policy-driven interventions aimed at enhancing youth employability, entrepreneurship, and future-readiness across the region. Adding strategic depth to the session, the Keynote Speakers, Dr. S. K. Rathor, Founder, Chairman & MD, SANFORT Group of Schools, and Gagan Agrawal, Head – Academic Partnerships (North & Central India), IBM Career Education, shared valuable insights on reimagining learning and skilling frameworks through digital integration, industry alignment, and outcome-driven education models. Their collective perspectives reinforced the importance of equipping students with relevant digital competencies, critical thinking abilities, and adaptive mindsets to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce. The session laid a strong foundation for meaningful deliberations throughout the summit on empowering future leaders and driving sustainable socio-economic transformation in Jammu & Kashmir. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Panel 1: Digital India in the Himalayas: Bridging the Tech Divide for Learning Equity
The first panel discussion, “Digital India in the Himalayas: Bridging the Tech Divide for Learning Equity,” sparked an engaging and insightful dialogue on addressing the infrastructural, geographical, and socio-economic barriers that affect access to quality digital education in the Himalayan region. Moderated by Dr. Meenakshi Sharma, Director, Institute of Management Sciences, Jammu, the session brought together a distinguished panel of academic leaders and education innovators who shared ground-level experiences and forward-looking strategies to promote learning equity through technology. The panel featured Dr. Balbinder Singh Pathania, Executive Director, Dronacharya PG College, Kangra; Prof. (Dr.) Hanan Khalid Khan, Director, ASE Group of Institutions, Kashmir; Prof. (Dr.) C.V. Gopinath, Director, Majhighariani Institute of Technology and Science, Rayagada; Dr. Atul Hans, Director Academics, International Daily Rising School, Jammu; Anu Kaushal, Director – Training & Communications, Lamrin Tech Skills University, Ropar; Ikkz Ikbal, Principal, Maryam Memorial Institute Pandithpara Qaziabad, Srinagar; and Rajeev Sharma, Principal, J&K Police Public School, Jammu. The discussion underscored the critical role of digital infrastructure, faculty upskilling, blended learning approaches, and cross-sector collaboration in narrowing the technology gap and ensuring inclusive, future-ready education for learners in remote and mountainous regions. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Panel 2: Fostering Future Leaders: How Values-Based Education Can Inspire Peace & Progress
The second panel discussion, “Fostering Future Leaders: How Values-Based Education Can Inspire Peace & Progress,” focused on the critical role of education in nurturing ethical leadership, empathy, and social responsibility among learners. Moderated by Arvind Mahajan, Chairman & MD, Spring Dales English School, Kathua, the session brought together a distinguished panel of education leaders who shared thoughtful perspectives on integrating values, character education, and emotional intelligence into mainstream learning. The panel featured Ritesh Kapoor, Director–Principal, A.S.N. Hr. Secondary School, Channi Himmat, Jammu; Tarvinder Kaur, Regional Director, Sanfort Group of Schools, Jammu; Irtiqa Kaushfi, Principal, Hissam Institute of Learning & Leadership, Srinagar; Ishfaq Sayeed, Chairman, New Light Public Model School, Chitterkote Karnah, Kashmir; and Riyaz Kathjoo, Principal, Green Valley Educational Institute, Srinagar. The discussion underscored how values-based education can act as a powerful catalyst for peace-building, inclusive growth, and long-term societal progress, empowering students to become responsible citizens and future leaders who contribute meaningfully to harmony and development in the region. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Panel 3: Last-Mile Learning: Leveraging Innovation to Make Education Inclusive and Equitable
The third panel discussion, “Last-Mile Learning: Leveraging Innovation to Make Education Inclusive and Equitable,” centred on the critical importance of reaching learners at the grassroots and ensuring that quality education is accessible to all, regardless of geography or socio-economic background. Moderated by Er. Dinesh Gupta, Dean Academics, Yogananda College of Engineering & Technology, Jammu, the session brought together eminent academic leaders and experts who shared practical insights on strengthening last-mile delivery through innovation, technology, and inclusive policy frameworks.
The panel featured Gagan Agrawal, Head – Academic Partnerships (North & Central India), IBM Career Education; Prof. (Dr.) Manish Kumar Srivastava, Pro Vice Chancellor, Arni University, Indora; Prof. (Dr.) Sandhya Tiwari, Dean, School of Languages & Member Executive Council, Central University of Kashmir; Prof. Vandana Sharma, Dean, School of Languages, Central University of Jammu; and Prof. Savita Nayyar, Director – Centre for Women Studies, University of Jammu, Jammu Tawi. The discussion highlighted the role of digital innovation, institutional collaboration, and learner-centric approaches in overcoming last-mile challenges, promoting equity, and building a more inclusive and resilient education ecosystem. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Panel 4: Skills to Success: Reimagining Curriculum with Insights that Drive Enrollment to Employment
The fourth panel discussion, “Skills to Success: Reimagining Curriculum with Insights that Drive Enrollment to Employment,” focused on aligning academic curricula with the evolving demands of industry and the future workforce. Moderated by Siddhartth Singh, Director, Meritto, the session brought together eminent academic and industry leaders who shared strategic perspectives on strengthening the education-to-employment continuum through skill-based, outcome-driven learning models.
The panel featured Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh; Rehman Malik, Chairman, UEG College of Paramedical Science; Dr. Anup Shukla, Dean (Student Affairs), IIT Jammu; Dr. Kapil Kapoor, Registrar, Abhilashi University; and Dr. Shamim Ahmed Bandey, Principal, SKC Government Degree College. The discussion highlighted the importance of curriculum redesign, industry partnerships, experiential learning, and data-driven insights in improving student engagement, employability, and workforce readiness. Panelists emphasised how integrating practical skills, career-oriented pathways, and real-time labour market insights can ensure smoother transitions from enrollment to meaningful employment. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Panel 5: Educators as Changemakers: Empowering Teachers with Tools, Tech & Training
The fifth panel discussion, “Educators as Changemakers: Empowering Teachers with Tools, Tech & Training,” focused on the central role of educators in driving meaningful transformation within the education ecosystem. Moderated by Dr. Adit Gupta, Group Director, MIER Group of Institutions, the session brought together senior academic leaders who shared insights on strengthening teacher capacity through continuous professional development and innovation.
The panel featured Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, University of Kashmir; Dr. Subrat Sharma, Dean, Academic Affairs, University of Ladakh; and Prof. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science & Technology. The discussion underscored the importance of equipping educators with modern pedagogical tools, digital technologies, and structured training frameworks to enhance classroom engagement, improve learning outcomes, and foster future-ready, student-centric education across the region. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Susheel Kumar Bhat
The first industry address, “Samsung for Education,” was delivered by Susheel Kumar Bhat, Deputy General Manager, Samsung India, who highlighted innovative solutions aimed at enhancing digital learning environments across institutions. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Urvashi Rana
The second industry speech, “Building a Connected School Ecosystem: One Platform for Teaching, Learning & Administration,” was presented by Urvashi Rana, Senior Sales Manager, PowerSchool. She emphasized the importance of unified digital platforms to streamline academic and administrative workflows. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Siddhartth Singh
The third industry talk, “Making of Education Industry's Digital Backbone,” was delivered by Siddhartth Singh, Director, Meritto, focusing on how robust technological infrastructure is becoming essential for institutional growth and learner success. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
CA Mayur Zanwar
The fourth industry session, “Bridging Education, Employment, and Trust through Blockchain & AI,” was addressed by CA Mayur Zanwar, Co-Founder, TruScholar, who discussed how emerging technologies can build transparency and credibility across academic and professional ecosystems. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Gagan Agrawal
The fifth industry speech, “Empowering Youth in the Digital Era through Skilling,” was delivered by Gagan Agrawal, Head – Academic Partnerships (North & Central India), IBM Career Education, centering on industry-aligned skilling initiatives that prepare young learners for future careers. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Mustak Rogatya
The sixth industry address, “Adoption of AI & ICT in Education: Empowering Institutions for the Future,” was presented by Mustak Rogatya, Vice President, MasterSoft ERP, who highlighted the transformative role of AI-driven systems in improving institutional efficiency and learner engagement. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
RoundTable Discussion: Technology for Teachers: Empowering Educators with Tools, Training & Tech
The Roundtable Discussion on “Technology for Teachers: Empowering Educators with Tools, Training & Tech” brought together an extensive panel of influential education leaders and industry experts committed to advancing digital empowerment for teachers across Jammu & Kashmir. The discussion featured key industry representatives including Susheel Kumar Bha and Pradeep Nayar from Samsung India, alongside prominent academic leaders such as Dr. Hitesh Mahajan, Owner & Director, R.N. Tagore Hr. Sec. School, Jammu; Dr. KCS Mehta, Director Academics/Principal, International Delhi Public School, Akhnoor; Dr. Shatambary Sharma, Founder & Chairperson, Sheffield World School, Jammu; Rohini Aima, Vice-Chairperson & Principal, Jammu Sanskriti School, Jammu Tawi; Ramesh Saini, Managing Director, St. Andrews Convent School, Punjab: Isher Singh, Chairman, D S Heritage Scholars School, Kathua; Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Owner, My Dolphin School, Kupwara; Indu Kapoor, Principal, British International School, Sainik Colony, Jammu; Prashant Salaria, Managing Director, Prashant Public School, Udhampur; Dr. Vikesh Kaur, Founder Principal, Doon International School Jammu; Arvind Mahajan, Chairman & MD, Spring Dales English School, Kathua; Dr. Atul Hans, Director Academics, International Daily Rising School, Jammu; Er. Ashraf, Chairman, Alexandra Secondary School, Jammu; Baba Nazrul Islam, Chairman, Life Foundation School, Budgam; Adv. Gambhir Dev Singh Charak, Managing Director, Rich Harvest School, Jammu; Adv. Kunal Saini, Trustee & MD, Stephens International Public School, Jammu; Pragati Sharma, Chairperson & Director, Universal Delhi Public School, Rajouri; Ritesh Kapoor, Director-Principal, A.S.N. Hr. Secondary School, Channi Himmat, Jammu; Ishfaq Sayeed, Chairman, New Light Public Model School, Chitterkote Karnah, Kashmir; Lokesh Kumar, Principal, Cambridge International School, Kathua; Ikkz Ikbal, Principal, Maryam Memorial Institute, Pandithpara Qaziabad, Srinagar; Malik Shabir Ahmad, Chairperson, Cambridge Senior Secondary School, Nagbal Shopian, Kashmir; and Rajeev Sharma, Principal, J&K Police Public School, Jammu. Together, these distinguished leaders shared insights on integrating digital tools, enhancing teacher training, and strengthening the technological capabilities of educators to build a more innovative and future-ready education ecosystem in the region. Watch the session at ArdorComm TV.
Award & Felicitation Ceremony
The ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2025 concluded with a Felicitation & Award Ceremony that celebrated the outstanding contributions of educators, institutions, and EdTech innovators in redefining skilling and learning in the digital era. The awards recognised exemplary leadership, innovative practices, and transformative initiatives that have empowered students with future-ready skills, digital competencies, and employability—aligning with the summit’s focus on preparing the youth of Jammu & Kashmir to become the region’s next generation of leaders. Special recognition was given to those driving change through technology-enabled learning, skill development programs, and values-based education. The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt Thank You Note by Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor, ArdorComm Media Group, expressing gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners for contributing to a summit that charted a path for a digitally empowered and skill-ready future for J&K’s youth. Watch the ceremony on ArdorComm TV.