Speakers

Prof. (Dr.) Pankaj Kumar Mishra is the Pro Vice-Chancellor at Glocal University in Saharanpur, bringing over two decades of distinguished experience in academia, administration, and innovation. Committed to learner-centric and outcome-based education, he has held leadership roles in educational institutions, enhancing student learning experiences. As an advisor, he has played a pivotal role in guiding Higher Education Institutions in implementing transformative initiatives such as the New Education Policy and Outcome-Based Education methodologies. With a passion for revolutionizing education, Prof. Mishra is dedicated to empowering academic institutions to adapt to the evolving educational landscape. His work reflects a commitment to shaping the future of education, making a meaningful impact on the world of learning. Connect with him for collaboration and dialogue on the future of education.

Anand Palsuley, a distinguished Senior Director (VP) of Marketing at Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, is a seasoned business leader with over 22 years of strategic experience. An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, he excels in P&L management, business strategy, and driving sales and marketing initiatives across diverse sectors such as Education (Online, blended & offline), Media, FMCG, and BFSI. As a business turnaround specialist, Anand has successfully set up new ventures and orchestrated steady growth, managing P&L portfolios ranging from Rs.10 Crore to Rs.600 Crore. Proficient in Digital Marketing, Marketing, Strategy, B2B & B2C Sales, Alliances & Partnerships, and team management, he is known for his dynamic approach. Beyond his corporate achievements, Anand is also a teacher and entrepreneur, reflecting his commitment to both education and innovation. His leadership prowess and multifaceted expertise contribute significantly to the success and growth of the organizations he engages with.

Ashutosh Phatak, affectionately known as Ashu, is a renowned music composer, producer, and performer. As the Pro Vice Chancellor – Institutional Impact at Vijaybhoomi University, he brings his expertise to the academic realm. With a musical career spanning over two decades, Ashu has produced over 15 contemporary music albums and composed for numerous television commercials and critically acclaimed films. He co-founded the groundbreaking True School of Music, India’s first institute of contemporary music, aiming to empower aspiring musicians and industry professionals. As a founding partner of BlueFrog, he played a pivotal role in transforming India’s independent music scene. An active figure in the live music scene, Ashu has performed at major festivals in India and internationally, including SXSW. His latest venture, singShala, is a vocal learning app designed to make singing education accessible and enjoyable, utilizing AI-powered lessons and real-time feedback. In addition to his musical endeavors, Ashu is also deeply involved in the digital space, contributing to the evolving landscape of music education. Currently residing in Pune, India, with his dogs Bowie and Prince, Ashu continues to be a driving force in the dynamic world of music and education.

Dr. Rajendra Sinha, the Vice-Chancellor of Sandip University, Nasik, is a seasoned academic and administrator with 36 years of experience in various leadership roles in renowned universities across India. With a diverse educational background, including a Ph.D. in Management, he has contributed significantly to academia and administration. Dr. Sinha has received prestigious awards such as the “Jewell of India Award” from the Indian Solidarity Council and the “Nation’s Vikas Jyoti Award” from the Economic Growth Society of India. He is a member of several esteemed organizations, including the Indian Industrial Relation Association and the All India Association for Educational Research. As the Editor-in-chief of “RESEARCH INCEPTION” and an Associate Editor for two international journals, Dr. Sinha has actively contributed to academic publications. He has authored several books on management principles, performance management systems, and marketing management. With 93 research publications to his name, Dr. Rajendra Sinha is a respected figure in the academic community, known for his expertise in management and commitment to education and research.

Prof. Prasad D. Khandekar, a distinguished figure in Electronics and Communication Engineering, brings 23 years of teaching and 5 years of industry experience to his role as Vice Chancellor at Deccan Education Society’s Pune University. Renowned for his leadership in engineering education, he played a pivotal role in transforming MIT institutes into Dr Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, Pune. Having held key positions such as Dean-Internal Quality Assurance, Dean-Faculty of Engineering and Technology, and Sr. Director-Centre for Industry Academic Partnerships, Prof. Khandekar has significantly contributed to enhancing the industry readiness of engineering graduates. His global engagement includes participation in the ABET Symposium 2016 in Florida, USA, and collaborations with institutions in France, USA, Austria, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Japan. Prof. Khandekar is a sought-after speaker, sharing insights on Indian higher education at conferences, World Education Summit, and in print and electronic media. His forward-looking perspective on university competition with third-party aggregators is sparking discussions and debates within the higher education community in India.