The MIECA 2024 panel discussion, "Cultivating Future Leaders: A Perspective," brought together distinguished directors from some of India’s leading institutes. This insightful discussion delved into the evolving landscape of leadership in the academic and professional spheres. Moderated by Shri Siddharth Pai, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Siana Capital Management LLP, the panel featured Prof. Dr. T N Singh, Director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna; Dr. Rajiv Prakash, Director of IIT Bhilai; and Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh, Director of IIIT Vadodara.
Together, they explored the nuances of leadership development, with a focus on nurturing future job providers, rather than simply preparing job seekers. Here are the key takeaways and insights from their discussion.
The conversation began with each panelist sharing their personal leadership mantra Dr. Rajiv Prakash emphasized teamwork, stating that leadership is about bringing everyone along, even if they don't all agree. For him, it’s essential to foster a collaborative environment where people work together toward shared goals.
Prof. Dr. T N Singh highlighted the importance of reading people’s minds, understanding them, and guiding them effectively. He pointed out that true leaders are often behind the scenes, solving problems and pushing forward solutions rather than merely standing at the forefront. This servant leadership approach ensures the organization moves forward as a cohesive unit.
On the other hand, Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh underscored that leadership must come from within and be a part of one’s character. He emphasized that students should strive to be leaders, inspiring followers through debate, deliberation, and strong decision-making.
The panelists agreed that fostering leadership skills among students is essential to shaping future leaders. Prof. Dr. T N Singh discussed the various platforms within their institutions that allow students to showcase and develop leadership qualities. He stressed the need for students to identify what information is valuable and make decisions based on informed choices. In a world inundated with information, it is critical to teach students the skill of discernment.
Dr. Rajiv Prakash mentioned that leadership skills could not be "taught" in the traditional sense but must be embedded within the students' DNA. The panel collectively emphasized that academic institutions should encourage students to step up as leaders through problem-solving exercises, social engagements, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh shared that creating opportunities for students to lead in small group settings, like social projects or problem-solving teams, is crucial. This gradual leadership exposure allows students to develop confidence and a proactive attitude over time.
One of the most significant points of discussion was the role of an adaptable curriculum in leadership development. The panelists emphasized that a curriculum should be flexible enough to allow students to explore diverse fields and find their areas of interest. Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh stressed that the National Education Policy (NEP) has opened pathways for students to gain interdisciplinary knowledge, which will empower them to become more versatile leaders.
Dr. Rajiv Prakash noted that curriculum development must be dynamic and should aim to meet global standards. He highlighted that students must be equipped not only with technical skills but also with a broad understanding of real-world challenges, which can be integrated into their studies through internships, practical projects, and industry exposure.
Prof. Dr. T N Singh expanded on this by saying that students must be encouraged to take risks and think critically. Institutions should not only teach students how to follow but also how to lead by example, making informed choices even in the face of challenges.The panel highlighted the critical role of industry collaboration in preparing students for leadership roles. Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh spoke about the increasing demand for students who can handle both technical and soft skills, especially in a fast-evolving job market. He pointed out that it’s essential for academic institutions to work closely with industries to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements.
Dr. Rajiv Prakash emphasized that academia must regularly engage with industry leaders to ensure that students gain hands-on experience and understand current industry practices. This collaboration can take the form of apprenticeships, internships, and real-world projects that allow students to apply what they’ve learned in class to practical situations.
Prof. Dr. T N Singh added that industry partnerships also provide students with valuable networking opportunities and mentorship, which are essential for developing a leadership mindset.
The panelists acknowledged that while technical knowledge is critical, leadership qualities such as adaptability, resilience, and ethical responsibility are equally important. Prof. Dr. T N Singh mentioned that academic institutions should focus on creating future job providers, not just job seekers. He stressed the importance of fostering a culture of entrepreneurship within the academic framework, enabling students to become self-sufficient and capable of creating opportunities for others.
Dr. Rajiv Prakash shared his vision for future leaders who can think beyond traditional boundaries and innovate continuously. He emphasized that cultivating a growth mindset and encouraging students to learn from failures is crucial to leadership development.
Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh concluded by noting that academic institutions must work to build confidence among students. By guiding students through small challenges and providing them with the tools to overcome obstacles, institutions can help them grow into confident and competent leaders.
The discussion on "Cultivating Future Leaders" at MIECA 2024 underscored the collective responsibility of academic institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers in shaping India’s future workforce. As the panelists from India’s premier institutes agreed, leadership development must begin at an early stage, with a curriculum that supports holistic growth, industry collaboration, and practical experience.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the next generation of leaders will need more than just technical expertise; they will require a blend of innovation, critical thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By fostering these qualities, academic institutions can prepare students not only to excel in their careers but also to become the visionary leaders that India needs.
This engaging panel discussion was a testament to the importance of leadership in the modern academic and professional landscape. Through their insights, Prof. Dr. T N Singh, Dr. Rajiv Prakash, and Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh provided a blueprint for cultivating future leaders who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.