Nikhil Barshikar, founder, CEO at Imarticus Learning shares his views on alternatives and challenges of the schooling system in India with FE Education Online.

What is the perfect factor about at present’s schooling system?

The smartest thing about at present’s schooling system is the rising recognition of the necessity for sensible abilities aligned with trade calls for. According to a current survey by NASSCOM, lower than 25% of recent graduates are job-ready. This has prompted a shift in direction of experiential studying and skill-focused applications that empower college students with the skills required within the skilled world. The integration of real-world tasks, internships, and collaborations with trade consultants has enriched the training expertise and nurtured a extra holistic method to schooling.

What is the one factor you wish to change within the system?

If I have been to pinpoint one essential change, it could be a stronger alignment between schooling and trade wants. In India, we frequently witness a spot between the data imparted in academic establishments and the expectations of hiring organizations. The curriculum must be extra attentive to the quickly evolving trade panorama, integrating cutting-edge applied sciences and sensible abilities. Collaborations between academia and trade, reminiscent of internships and visitor lectures, ought to be a basic a part of the training journey. This synergy would make graduates extra job-ready and improve their employability.

What is the position digital has performed within the evolution of the schooling system?

Digital expertise has been a game-changer, notably in bridging the abilities hole. Through on-line platforms, college students acquire entry to high-quality programs, no matter their geographical location. This has democratized schooling and enabled professionals to upskill whereas balancing work commitments. Moreover, the combination of AI-driven personalised studying journeys has made schooling extra tailor-made and efficient, guaranteeing a stronger hyperlink between studying outcomes and real-world purposes.

What has been the drawback of digital in schooling?

While some great benefits of digital schooling are quite a few, there are challenges to navigate. One important drawback is the digital divide, the place college students from economically deprived backgrounds would possibly lack entry to the mandatory expertise and dependable web connections. Additionally, the over-reliance on digital platforms can result in diminished face-to-face interactions and interpersonal abilities growth. Hence, it’s essential to strike a stability and make sure that expertise enhances, somewhat than replaces, conventional studying strategies.

What is the profession recommendation you wish to give to college students?

In a aggressive job market, the flexibility to adapt is paramount. The Future of Jobs report by the World Economic Forum estimates that by 2025, over half of all staff would require important reskilling. My recommendation to college students is to embrace lifelong studying and proactively search alternatives to amass new abilities. The job panorama is evolving quickly, and what units profitable professionals aside is their capacity to adapt and upskill constantly. Be open to new experiences, internships, and sensible tasks that present hands-on publicity. Also, domesticate a progress mindset and be prepared to step out of your consolation zone. Finally, keep in mind that networking is vital – construct relationships, search mentors, and faucet into the ability of your skilled group. Your schooling is a basis, however your willingness to study and evolve will form your long-term success.