Dr. Debmallya Chatterjee is Professor of Operations, Supply Chain and Quantitative Methods and Chairperson - PGDM Online Program, SPJIMR. With advanced certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Business School, his research focuses on multi-criteria decision making and related fields. His work has been published in renowned journals such as Taylor & Francis, Emerald, Inderscience, Sage Publications and Ivey Publications.

In today's rapidly evolving job market, the intersection of education and employability has become a focal point of discussion and concern. Recent reports of challenges faced by graduates, including those from prestigious institutions, highlight the need for a nuanced approach to skilling and preparing students for the professional world. A recent news article noted a significant rise in youth unemployment rates alongside their exposure to higher education, which is concerning. As an educator deeply engaged in the landscape of Indian higher education, I see this as an opportunity for the higher educational institutions (HEIs) to refine their approaches in imparting quality education.

Early education lays the foundation for a lifelong journey of learning and growth. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in emphasis from understanding and applying concepts towards a focus on achieving high marks. The relentless pursuit of academic success, driven by societal expectations and parental pressures, has fostered a culture where rote memorisation and exam performance overshadow genuine curiosity and critical thinking. This trend has detrimental consequences, depriving students of the joy of learning and the opportunity to develop essential skills for success in the professional sphere.

Indian HEIs have relied on conventional teaching methods characterised by lectures, textbooks and examinations. While these methods have their merits, they often fall short in preparing students for the complexities of the modern workplace. The passive nature of lectures does little to foster creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills – attributes that are increasingly valued by employers.

Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancement and globalisation has rendered traditional teaching methods inadequate in keeping pace with industry demands. The content taught in classrooms often becomes out-dated by the time students graduate, leaving them ill-prepared to tackle real-world challenges. In today's interconnected world, where innovation drives progress and disruption are the norm, HEIs must adapt their teaching methodologies to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitude required to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

It is imperative for HEIs to embrace modern teaching methods that promote active learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and the practical application of knowledge. Flipped classrooms, experiential learning, project-based assignments and industry internships are just a few examples of innovative approaches that can enhance students' engagement and skill development. By integrating these methods into the curriculum, HEIs can foster a culture of lifelong learning and equip students with the agility and adaptability needed to navigate an uncertain future. Some of the top institutions in India and abroad have adopted these methods and benefitted their stakeholders greatly.

Further, HEIs must re-evaluate their curricula to ensure alignment with industry needs and emerging trends. Co-creating curriculum content with industry experts can ensure that students are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills that are directly relevant to the workplace. By incorporating industry-relevant case studies and hands-on projects, HEIs can provide students with practical insights and industry exposure that complement theoretical learning.

In addition to technical proficiency, institutions must prioritise the development of social sensitivity, empathy and ethical leadership qualities among students. In a world where diversity, equity and inclusion are paramount, future leaders must possess the ability to understand and navigate complex social issues with empathy and integrity. By integrating social responsibility and ethics into the curriculum, institutions can cultivate a new generation of leaders who are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible and ethically conscious.

Finally, as institutions, we must emphasise the importance of adaptability, resilience and lifelong learning as essential skills for success in the 21st-century workforce. The ability to adapt to change, pivot in response to challenges and continuously upskill is crucial for thriving in this ever-changing world. But the question is, what are we doing to empower students to embrace lifelong learning as a means of personal and professional development?

The transformation of Indian higher education requires a holistic reimagining of teaching methodologies, curriculum design and student development strategies. The National Education Policy (NEP) articulates some of these aspects; however, the adaptation is slow. By embracing modern teaching methods, co-creating industry-relevant curriculum content, nurturing social sensitivity and empathy, institutions can prepare students to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace. As educators, it is imperative that we transcend our comfort zones and actively contribute to the creation of an education system that serves the best interests of the generations of students in India.