Inaugural Session: 'New Normal' Maharashtra: Pioneering Excellence in Education, Skilling & Employability
Background: The ‘New Normal’ paradigm in Maharashtra signifies a ground-breaking endeavour dedicated to the pursuit of educational excellence, skill enhancement, and enhanced employability. In the realm of education, Maharashtra stands as a trailblazer, diligently crafting innovative strategies to adapt to the dynamic educational and employment landscape. By pioneering innovative approaches, forging strategic partnerships, and harnessing the power of emerging technologies, Maharashtra is poised to not only meet the challenges of the ‘New Normal’ but to excel in shaping the future of education and employability for its citizens, ultimately driving socio-economic growth and progress in the state.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Dr. D. V. Jadhav,
Dr. D. V. Jadhav, Joint Director, Technical Education, Regional Office, Pune, Govt. of Maharashtra said, “Implementing the NEP is a major challenge also and we have to play a very crucial role in that. Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to implement the NEP curriculum in engineering education in the academic year 2023-24.”
Dr. Manjula Pooja
Dr. Manjula Pooja, MD & CEO, Kalorex Group said, “To be a top leader you need technology and knowledge as much as you need human development skills.”
Anup Menon
Anup Menon, Regional Head (West)– Academics & Government business, LinkedIn said, “I come from a place, LinkedIn which has a lot of members who are registered on LinkedIn, today we have crossed a billion members, in India we have crossed around 100 million members, now this means that we get to see a lot of people updating their skills, we see a lot of corporates posting a lot of jobs which gives us a visibility of what was the skills in the past versus what are the future skills.”
Chetan Wakalkar
Chetan Wakalkar, Educationist, Academic Advisor - Indira Institutes, Co-Founder, Unicircle and SmartXR said, “Maharashtra government did a wonderful thing, they came up with a concept called empowered autonomous colleges wherein the college and the university can co-brand the degree at the end of the period of study.”
Dr. Pranati Tilak
Dr. Pranati Tilak, Trustee, Chairman- Executive Council, TMV & Chairman, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyalaya said, “The education industry has seen significant modifications in order to adapt to the changing scenario in the pandemic lockdown we continued to impart education by embracing technology where classrooms were confined to a limited geographical space we now have digital classrooms e-resources and online learning platforms that have helped students from every socioeconomic background around the world to gain knowledge.”
Glimpses of the session
Inaugural Session
Panel 1: NEP 2023 Implementation & Funding: Paving the way for Transformational Reforms & Reshaping K-12 and HE Framework
Background: The National Education Policy (NEP) of 2023 is a comprehensive educational reform initiative in India that aims to reshape the country’s K-12 and Higher Education (HE) framework. This transformative policy seeks to address various challenges in the education sector, including outdated curriculum, assessment systems, and limited access to quality education, by introducing innovative changes such as a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, multilingualism, emphasis on vocational education, and the incorporation of technology in learning. Implementing the NEP 2023 and securing adequate funding for its various initiatives is crucial for achieving its goals of equipping students with 21st-century skills, promoting holistic development, and ensuring quality education for all.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Dr. Amit Oak
Dr. Amit Oak, COO, Vidyalankar Institute of Technology said, “National Education or New Education Policy 2023 is a comprehensive educational reform initiative in India that aims to reshape the country’s K12 and Higher Education framework.”
Rekha Puttamadegowda
Rekha Puttamadegowda, Principal, Orchids The International School said, “We make a curriculum where we start training the leaders because the purpose is to reach the students the challenges that students are facing has to be experienced by the teachers.”
Prof. (Dr.) Milind Pande
Prof. (Dr.) Milind Pande, Pro Vice-Chancellor, MIT World Peace University said, “Man making, character building is the motto of education and expansion of mind and expansion of the heart is the purpose of education.”
Dr. Vijaya Puranik
Dr. Vijaya Puranik, Director, Sinhgad Institute of Management And Computer Application, Pune said, “What we want is a shift to quality education as a purpose of the existence of an institution not the compliance as the driving force for the existence of the educational Institute.”
Dr. Ganesh Rao
Dr. Ganesh Rao, Director, Pune Business School said, “In education what's most important is the curriculum, what you teach, who is teaching, infrastructure and the ultimate output that is a placement.”
Dr. Nirmala Kumaraswamy
Dr. Nirmala Kumaraswamy, Director, D.Y. Patil Institute of Compter Applications & Management said, “Increasing communication, commitment and collaboration is actually the key to NEP implementation.”
Glimpses of the session
Panel 1
Panel 2: Mental Health & Well-being in Education
Background: The issue of mental health and well-being in education has gained significant prominence in recent years, recognizing that students’ and educators’ psychological and emotional well-being significantly impact their overall academic performance and quality of life. The growing awareness of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges within educational settings has prompted a reevaluation of traditional teaching and learning approaches. As a result, schools and educational institutions worldwide are increasingly focusing on the development of support systems, interventions, and policies to foster a positive, nurturing environment that promotes mental health, emotional resilience, and overall well-being for all stakeholders in the educational community.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Anantha Krishnan B
Anantha Krishnan B., CEO, Operations, Kalorex Group said, “We all understand that mentally healthy children do well in school, at homes and in the community, as per UNICEF one in every 21 children report some form of mental issues, depression, disinterest, anxiety being the major reasons and the pandemic has only aggravated the situation.”
Sudhir Kukreja
Sudhir Kukreja, Co Founder, Credence International Schools said, “There were mental health issues earlier as well but they were not as aggravated, they were not as prominently addressed, they did not really come to the surface.”
Sudhakar Joshi
Sudhakar Joshi, Head – Marketing and Client Servicing, Chrysaalis I-Math India Pvt Ltd said, “Upscaling is something that has really happened, people are looking at getting their skills better to adapt to new technologies, new methodologies.”
Dr. Pranati Tilak
Dr. Pranati Tilak, Trustee, Chairman- Executive Council, TMV & Chairman, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyalaya said, “When we talk about the environment in which a child grows, in which a child is nurtured, after the family the school is the most important aspect that needs to be considered.”
Dr. Harshita Sharma
Dr. Harshita Sharma, Founder Director, Brainstorm International said, “If we are aware of the emotions that children are going through I think we can take care of the rest of the things.”
Glimpses of the session
Panel 2
Panel 3: Research-based Learning, Skill Development & Multidisciplinary Approach: A Robust Eco-system in HEIs
Background: The integration of research-based learning, skill development, and a multidisciplinary approach within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) represents a significant shift in contemporary education. This approach emphasizes not only the acquisition of knowledge but also the application of research methodologies, the cultivation of practical skills, and the intersection of diverse academic disciplines. By fostering a robust ecosystem in HEIs, students are empowered to engage in hands-on, inquiry-driven learning, equipping them with the competencies and adaptability needed to excel in a rapidly evolving global landscape. This holistic approach aims to bridge the gap between academia and the real world, preparing graduates to tackle complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields and society at large.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Dr. Jaywant V. Shelar
Dr. Jaywant V. Shelar, Vice Chancellor, ITM Skills University said, “By fostering a robust ecosystem students are empowered to go beyond the books that is engaging hands-on experience, employee driven learning this equips them to get acquainted with the current trends in the industry nationally and globally.”
Dr. Sandeep Bhardwaj
Dr. Sandeep Bhardwaj, Dean Academics, Vivekanand Education Society's Business School said, “We need to find out ways, how we integrate the knowledge, skills and the multidisciplinary approach to attain all of these.”
Anup Menon
Anup Menon, Regional Head (West)-Academics & Government Business, LinkedIn said, “ Our NEP has a major component which talks about equitable education and it talks about quality education which I believe is something which eventually turns into research.”
Prof. (Dr.) G.K. Shirude
Prof. (Dr.) G.K. Shirude, Vice Chancellor, Sri Balaji University said, “Basic foundation of education is knowledge, knowledge follows the skills and then knowledge and skills combined we need research and when research is accomplished, with knowledge and skills then we will find out something going to be useful, demanded in the market.”
Prof. Hrridaysh Deshpande
Prof. Hrridaysh Deshpande, Vice Chancellor, Ajeenkya DY Patil University said, “Unfortunately when we talk of NEP, we don't talk of these qualitative aspects that the NEP talks about, they're just going after the quantitative aspect that the NEP has told.”
Prof. (Dr.) Yuvraj Lahoti
Prof. (Dr.) Yuvraj Lahoti, Controller of Examinations and Evaluations, Vishwakarma University said, “I still believe from our mythology, India and what we call it as Bharat is having the sound foundation of knowledge, rather we are creators of knowledge.”
Ashutosh Phatak
Ashutosh Phatak, Pro Vice Chancellor - Institutional Impact, Vijaybhoomi University said, “Multidisciplinary aspect of education is fundamentally important, I feel in the future.”
Dr. Rajnikant Rajhans
Dr. Rajnikant Rajhans, Dean, R&D, NICMAR University said, “Targeted processes has to be designed and which can give us a better result not oriented just for an NIRF ranking or any other ranking, rather what was the objective of that institution to be set up.”
Glimpses of the session
Panel 3
Panel 4: Global Education and Cultural Exchange through Mobilizing Technology
Background: The global education landscape is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the mobilization of technology, which has opened up unprecedented opportunities for global collaboration and cultural exchange. Advancements in digital tools and online platforms have facilitated cross-border learning experiences, enabling students and educators to connect, share knowledge, and engage in intercultural exchanges without geographical constraints. Through technology, educational institutions worldwide are leveraging these digital bridges to promote cultural understanding, foster global citizenship, and equip learners with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world. This evolution marks a significant shift in education, as it empowers individuals to engage in a richer, more globally informed educational experience.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Vivek Iyer
Vivek Iyer, Regional Vice President - India, Anthology said, “Use of technology to shatter the boundary of time and space has greatly helped in pushing globalization forward.”
Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Sinha
Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Sinha, Vice Chancellor, Sandip University said, “Technology especially internet and social media has enabled this exchange of ideas and values on global space.”
Dr. C.M. Sedani
Dr. C.M. Sedani, Dean, Indira College of Engg. & Design (ICEM) said, “We are in a country which is based on various diversity, language, geographical point and cultural exchange. I personally feel if you think about globalization it is not too difficult as far as we Indians have been concerned.”
Dr. Sayalee Gankar
Dr. Sayalee Gankar, Vice Chancellor, D Y Patil University, Ambi said, “Unless and until our faculties, non-teaching staff or administration staff if they don't use the technology, then there is no point, so how are we going to change the mindset of our own campuses in terms of creating those kind of syllabuses and programs to be offered, I think that’s very important.
Prof. S.K. Joshi
Prof. S.K. Joshi, Director, P.K. Technical Campus, Chakan said, “Most of the foreigners are coming to India just to imbibe the culture what we are having, so it is already proven that the globalization of Indian culture is there.”
Glimpses of the session
Panel 4
Panel 5: Changing Trends in Higher Education Enrollment Space with the Advent of New Age Technology
Background: In recent years, the landscape of higher education enrollment has witnessed a transformative shift driven by the rapid integration of new-age technology. Institutions are experiencing significant technological advancements, which are reshaping how students enroll in academic programs. This evolution has been marked by innovative changes in marketing budgeting and its components, resulting in a more data-driven and strategic approach. Education portals and publishers have emerged as influential partners, further altering the enrollment terrain. Moreover, institutions are adopting diverse digital marketing initiatives beyond traditional strategies, exploring influencer marketing and other creative methods to engage with prospective students in an ever-evolving digital age.
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Quotes from the Speakers
Tanpreet Makkad
Tanpreet Makkad, Co-founder, Zollege.in said, “We are into the space of providing the leads for admissions and enrollments and for the same we are doing some activities which helps us share the leads.”
Dr. Prasad D Khandekar
Dr. Prasad D Khandekar, Founding Vice Chancellor, DES Pune University said, “I now see the universities which are coming up the first recruitment they do is for the admission and marketing with around 40 people recruited only for admission and marketing so before they start designing the curricula they start recruiting admission and marketing so that's a change in focus which has happened in the last 3 years I would say.”
Prof. (Dr.) K. Prathapan
Prof. (Dr.) K. Prathapan, Vice Chancellor, D. Y. Patil Agriculture and Technical University, Talsande said, “My mind says that as a teacher, as a professor, researcher, administrator and now as a Vice Chancellor, mouth to mouth publicity is the best mechanism through which admissions are to be taken.”
Prof. (Dr.) Sunita M. Karad
Prof. (Dr.) Sunita M. Karad, Director ICT, MIT Art Design and Technology University said, “Today we are becoming more and more dependent on technology because of the rapid growth in the technology as well as the rapid growth in the education sector.”
Avijit Nair
Avijit Nair, CEO, Akemi Group of Institutes said, “We are living in such a generation wherein we do not know maybe in the next 15 years down the line what kind of technological innovation is going to come.”
Glimpses of the session
Panel 4
Industry Presentations
Subha Mahata
Subha Mahata, Associate Director – Institution Sales | HireMee gave an industry presentation on the topic, "Effectiveness of Hybrid Assessment Model in Digital World" at 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', in Kolkata, West Bengal on 23rd Feb 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Industry Speech : HireMee
Book Launch & Fireside chat
Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff
Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff, MD and CEO, Kalorex Group in a fireside chat round with Anantha Krishnan B. CEO, Operations, Kalorex Group said, “I'm glad the book came at a time to bring the distinction about the role of a parent in a new-gen world also how relevant it is but slightly differently.”
Glimpses of the session
Book Launch & Fireside chat
Industry Presentation
Vivek Iyer
Vivek Iyer, Regional Vice President - India, Anthology, gave an Industry Speech on the topic, "AI Powered Teaching & Learning" at the 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Industry Speech : Knauf Ceiling Solutions India
Industry Presentation
Anup Menon
Anup Menon, Regional Head (West)– Academics & Government business, LinkedIn, gave an Industry Speech on the topic, "Future of Work - LinkedIn for Education Institutions" at the 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Industry Speech : LinkedIn
Industry Presentation
Ujjwal Kandhari
Ujjwal Kandhari, Dy Manager -Technology, Digitaled India, gave an Industry Speech on the topic, "Harnessing Active Learning Techniques for Success" at the 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Industry Speech : SAP India
Industry Presentation
Jayant Karambelkar
Jayant Karambelkar, AVP Growth, ExtraaEdge, gave an Industry Speech on the topic, "Winning at Higher Education Admissions in 2024" at the 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Industry Speech : ExtraaEdge Technology
Award & Felicitation Ceremony
Award & Felicitation Ceremony held at the 'ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023', held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023.
Glimpses of the session
Felicitation Ceremony
Awards Ceremony
