How Universities can build a Future-Ready Workforce

Professor Koen Lamberts, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Sheffield in an insightful interaction with Higher Education Review, shared his views on which skills do you think will be most critical for Indian students over the next 10–15 years, and how do you see these evolving to meet India’s long-term needs by 2047, how can higher education institutions in India and the UK better align curricula with the rapidly evolving needs of industry and technology to prepare students for future careers and more.

Professor Koen Lamberts is the President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, part of the UK's Russell Group of research-intensive institutions. He is a cognitive scientist with a track record of experimental research into cognitive processes and collaborating with commercial and industrial partners. He is Chair of the Board of Trustees at UKCISA and a Board Member of the Russell Group. He is an accomplished cognitive scientist and has held senior leadership positions at the University of Warwick.

Which skills do you think will be most critical for Indian students over the next 10–15 years, and how do you see these evolving to meet India’s long-term needs by 2047? How can universities help develop them?

In a rapidly changing world, it is difficult to anticipate the skills that will be needed in the future – but Indian students of all backgrounds will almost certainly need to have a good understanding of how to use data, artificial intelligence, and technology. It is important that universities respond to the latest technological advancements and adapt their degree programmes and curricula accordingly, and equip students with the transferable and entrepreneurial skills they need to be agile and learn throughout their careers. Viksit Bharat 2047 sets out a clear mission for India, and education and skills will be a critical part of its success. 

How can higher education institutions in India and the UK better align curricula with the rapidly evolving needs of industry and technology to prepare students for future careers?

Universities have to make sure they are agile and align their curricula with the dynamic needs of industry. They have to forge strong partnerships with employers to understand the skills they need, not only now but for the future. Many UK universities work with the same companies as their Indian counterparts, so it is important we work in partnership to share knowledge and insights and continually evolve.

I have been very impressed by the way Indian universities consult with industry to help develop their curricula with the employer always in mind – often having key stakeholders or Professors of Practice delivering lectures on specific topics during the semesters, and this will become increasingly prevalent in the future. I think there is a great deal that UK universities can learn and understand from their partners in this area. 

Also Read: How Canada's Future-Ready Universities Shape Adaptable Careers

Based on your experience in the UK, what lessons can Indian universities learn from international models in building skills, fostering innovation, and preparing students for the future?

Indian universities are well placed to use their own experiences and develop international collaborations that are sustainable and long-lasting. However, I would always recommend that colleagues remain open-minded and curious about international partnerships. At Sheffield, on a number of our degree programmes, we offer our students the opportunity to embark on year abroad options, or a year in industry, at one of our key partners. We find this helps put our students in a strong position to succeed when they graduate by giving them vital international or industry exposure. The connections that students make during this time can have a positive impact on their personal and professional development for many years after their graduation.

How can collaborations between Indian and UK universities, including student and faculty exchanges, foster innovation, bridge gaps in technology and research, and contribute to building a future-ready workforce?

The most productive collaborations between Indian and UK universities are based on mutual respect, with a clear recognition of each other’s strengths, and an openness and willingness to work towards a common purpose. We all have a role to play in finding solutions to the complex problems the world faces, and by working together we can be greater than the sum of our parts. We also see immense value in developing degree programmes with our Indian counterparts that bring together the educational expertise of both countries. This allows students to receive the benefits from two education systems, combined with international experiences they can take with them throughout their careers. There is also an opportunity for consultation between universities to understand how they can find gaps in the curricula and utilise expertise from both countries to fill these.

In your view, what role do international collaborations play in scaling quality education in India while ensuring students gain practical skills and exposure to global best practices?

International collaborations allow institutions to share approaches, best practice and create an environment where we can learn from each other. Such collaboration can offer insight into different pedagogical practice, innovations in research and skills needed in countries and industries across the world. Through building strong and trusting partnerships, we can understand how collaboration can complement each other. If we place students at the heart of these initiatives, there is an opportunity to create nuanced and impactful educational experiences that will provide graduates with the skills they need for success.