The Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025.pdf

INDIA
Dean of Engineering,
Architecture and Interior Design
Director of Research,
Amity University Dubai
The
of the Year
Steering the Next Wave of
Engineering Innovation and Community Inclusion
Rethinking Engineering
Education
From Rote Learning to
Real-World Readiness
Beyond Access
Building Equitable
Engineering Ecosystems

An investment in
knowledge pays the
best interest.

Editor's
Perspective
ook around, at the phone in your
L
hand, the building above your
head, the clean water running
from your tap, or the silent systems that
keep cities breathing and planes ﬂying.
Behind each of these everyday marvels is
engineering: quiet, precise, and
profoundly human. It is not just circuits
and code, steel and concrete—it is the
ingenuity that holds our modern life
together. Whether it's a bridge connecting
two lands or a biomedical device
restoring a heartbeat, engineering isn't
backstage; it's the script, the stage, and
often, the safety net. And at the heart of it
all are the engineers—those who dare to
imagine solutions where others see
limits.
In this special edition, we celebrate one such
individual whose contributions are not only
deeply technical but deeply human. Dr.
Sathish Kannan is being recognized as “The
Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025”—a
title earned through decades of dedication
that have reshaped how engineering is
taught, practiced, and understood. His
impact is not conﬁned to laboratories or
lecture halls; it spills into real lives, new
policies, and reimagined futures. With a rare
blend of research leadership, academic
transformation, and societal contribution, Dr.
Kannan exempliﬁes what happens when
purpose meets precision.
This edition is a reminder that recognition
belongs not just to those who lead companies
or invent gadgets, but also to those who
transform how knowledge itself is cultivated
and shared. Through his work at the
intersection of education, research, and
social upliftment, Dr. Kannan inspires a
diﬀerent narrative—one where engineers are
mentors, problem-solvers, and community
builders. Our goal with this feature is not
only to spotlight his story, but to spark
conversations about the kind of leadership
the engineering discipline and the world
beyond need today.
We hope this edition oﬀers readers more
than insight—it oﬀers hope. That innovation
with empathy is not a contradiction, and that
technical brilliance can walk hand-in-hand
with purpose. Here's to designing a future
where ideas are inclusive, impact is
intentional, and leaders like Dr. Kannan
continue to shape the foundations of
tomorrow.
Abhishek Roy
- Managing Editor
INDIA
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I N D I A
Designing a Future
Where Ideas are
Inclusive

TABLE OF CONTENT
Culturally Responsive Education
Teaching for a
Globalized World18
Profiles
Articles
Reimagining Classrooms
Creating Gender-Responsive
Learning Environments32
Profiles
Hira Prasad
Turning Schooling into a
Journey of Purpose28
Sudha Kaviarasu
Rewriting the Rules of Learning36
Mrs. Aiswarya Sivanesh
Nurturing Humanity Through
Education14
Dr. Grace Pinto
Lighting the Lamp of Learning22
Cover Story
Kavita Kerawalla
Shattering the Mold of
Traditional Schooling06
Table Of
CONTENT
Akshay Garkel
Safeguarding Trust in
a Borderless Digital Economy
Karan Kohli
Championing Financial Literacy
Through Finbridge Expo
Dr. Kushal Sanghvi
Architect of Integrated
Media Innovation
Beyond Access
Building Equitable
Engineering Ecosystems
Rethinking Engineering Education
From Rote Learning to
Real-World Readiness
24
32
40
28
36ArticlesProfiles
Cover Cover Cover
StoryStoryStory
Steering the Next Wave of
Engineering Innovation and
Community Inclusion
06

Dr. Sathish
Kannan
Steering the Next Wave of Engineering
Innovation and Community Inclusion
Technology Inclusion and
Education for all. "Until we
establish equality and
oneness in education, we
can't create a peaceful
world.”
Cover
Story
Dean of Engineering,
Architecture and Interior Design
Director of Research,
Amity University Dubai
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The Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025
rom the ﬁrst ﬂicker of morning
F
light to the hum of a bustling
city, engineering quietly
powers the world around us—bridges,
clean air, smartphones, and the systems
that deliver food and water are all the
result of meticulous design and
innovation. Yet behind these everyday
conveniences lies not just the brilliance
of engineers, but also the educators
who shape them. These often-unsung
mentors equip future engineers with
the knowledge, curiosity, and vision to
transform abstract ideas into practical
breakthroughs. While their
contributions may go unnoticed, their
impact is felt in every innovation that
sustains and advances modern life.
Among the many engineering leaders
who contribute to shaping the next
generation of engineers, Dr. Sathish
Kannan stands out as a paragon of this
mission.
Dr. Sathish Kannan is being recognized
in our edition as "The Inspiring
Personality of the Year 2025" for his
transformative contributions that
transcend the boundaries of traditional
academia.
His visionary technology leadership,
groundbreaking strides in engineering
education, and commitment to research
excellence have redeﬁned how
universities engage with industry and
society.
engineering but a beacon of purpose-
driven innovation in the UAE and
beyond.
An Engineer's Path
Behind Dr. Kannan's success lies the
ﬁrm support of his parents (Mrs.
Vasumathy and Mr. V.S. Kannan), to
whom he credits much of his
By championing a future-ready
tangible skills framework, advancing
student inclusion and diversity, and
empowering women in science and
engineering, he nurtures not just
professionals but changemakers.
What sets him apart is his deep-rooted
belief in community engagement,
coexistence, and social responsibility,
making him not just a leader in
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Collaboration across disciplines,
industries, and borders is the key to
tackling the complex issues of our
time, and that's what we strive for
at Amity University—an ecosystem
of innovation and partnership.
achievements. His mother, who worked
with the Combat Vehicle Research
Development Establishment (CVRDE
Avadi, India), played a pivotal role in
shaping his aspirations and introducing
him to the world of science and
innovation. Despite his parents'
challenging poverty during the 1950s
and ﬁnancial circumstances, they
energised him with the belief to keep
moving despite failures to pursue his
ambitions. According to them, failure
only requires a change of path and not
destination, which Dr. Kannan has put
into practice throughout his
engineering journey in the last 25
years.
His father taught him patience,
resilience to failure, and perseverance,
which were instrumental in nurturing
the drive that fuels his continued
contributions to engineering and
research today. His wife, Mrs.
Sowmya, an established industry
leader, signiﬁcantly supported
providing thoughtful perspectives that
helped shape his career at crucial
junctures.
Dr. Kannan is a distinguished academic
leader and researcher in mechanical
His contributions signiﬁcantly
advanced the understanding of
composites machining and were among
the ﬁrst of their kind analytical models,
with component applications in
automotive, aerospace, defense, and
biomedical industries.
Following his doctoral studies, he held
a postdoctoral position at the
University of Cambridge, UK, where
he worked as a Manufacturing
Specialist on innovative production
processes and material testing for
industrial ﬂow meters, which increased
the market share of KROHNE UK. He
later joined Rolls-Royce plc Ltd (UK)
in the Manufacturing Technology
Group, where he played Engineering
leadership roles on the Trent 1000-
TEN Boeing 787 Dreamliner
programme, the Airbus A380 and A350
programmes.
Currently, Dr. Kannan serves as the
Dean of Engineering, Architecture, and
Interior Design at Amity University
Dubai, where he also holds the position
engineering with industry expertise in
advanced manufacturing, materials
science, and university research
leadership. After earning his Bachelor's
degree in Mechanical Engineering
from the University of Madras in 1998,
he began his professional journey as a
Graduate Apprentice Mechanical
Engineer at Dalmia Cements (India)
Ltd. He later pursued doctoral studies
at the University of New Brunswick,
Canada, completing his PhD in 2006.
During his PhD under supervision of
Dr Hossam Kishawy at the
University of New Brunswick, Dr.
Kannan focused on introducing a novel
lightweight car engine material with
the project collaborators General
TM
Motors (Canada) and AUTO 21
Canada. He developed the Aluminium
Composites (AMCs) through a
pioneering energy-based analytical
force model for manufacturing these
state-of-the-art advanced materials.
The ﬁndings of this research were
published in reputed International
Journals and Conference proceedings
(CIRP, ASME, NAMRI).
of Director of University Research.
Since joining the institution, he has led
a sweeping transformation of its
research ecosystem—revamping the
research management system, doubling
faculty research output, and expanding
Centers of Excellence and 29 research
clusters, each mapped to the 13 UN
Sustainable Development Goals and
led by appointed Center Directors. His
leadership reﬂects a forward-looking
approach that bridges academia with
the number of research personnel
fourfold to over 300 within a year. In
alignment with the UAE's Vision 2031
and the global call for sustainable
development, Dr. Kannan has
spearheaded the establishment of six
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about textbooks and classrooms; it's a
catalyst for creating future-ready
talent, cultivating leadership
excellence, Nation Building and
bridging societal gaps. He is deeply
committed to identifying and nurturing
talent at an early stage, ensuring that
students are equipped with the right
skills to meet real-world challenges.
Dr. Kannan advocates for a more
inclusive technological ecosystem
University Dubai has worked
extensively with the Emirati Student
Leadership forum which aims to equip
the Emirati students with the practical
nation building skills and teach them to
build a foundation to motivate,
empower, and transform themselves
and others by making a diﬀerence in
the world. This initiative aims to
identify and develop high potential
Emirati students and expose them with
the required methodologies to build
their skills and capabilities to adapt
with changing world aﬀairs through
UAE vision 2031.
Tangible Skills and Real-World
Industry Readiness
Established in 2011, Amity University
Dubai is a leading international
institution in the UAE and part of the
globally recognized Amity Education
Group, which operates campuses in
Dubai, London, New York, San
Francisco, Singapore, Uzbekistan,
Angola, and across multiple locations
where innovation is not a privilege of
the few but a right for all. By
promoting equitable access to
technology and industry-driven
learning, he envisions a world where
every student, regardless of
background, can lead, innovate, and
make meaningful contributions to
society. In support of the Emiratization
policy of the United Arab Emirates, Dr.
Kannan and his team at Amity
national priorities. He also manages a
team of 28 postdoctoral research
fellows and has taught more than 1,500
engineering students in the last 10
years, reinforcing his commitment to
nurturing talent and building a
knowledge-based future.
Award, and graduate research
scholarships in Canada. He is a
registered Chartered Engineer with the
Royal Institution of Mechanical
Engineers (UK), a Member of the
Global Engineering Deans Council, a
Member of the American Society for
Engineering Education, and a Highly
TM
Qualiﬁed Personnel of AUTO 21
Centres of Excellence for Automotive
Research in Canada. His work
continues to make a lasting impact in
both academic and industrial spheres.
Creating Future-ready Talent
Dr. Kannan ﬁrmly believes that the
true power of engineering and
technology lies in its ability to uplift
communities and transform lives. For
him, engineering education is not just
Dr. Kannan has authored over 175
journal articles, conference papers, and
book chapters. He has successfully
secured seven industry research grants
worth $1.1 million USD and 13
academic grants totaling $500K USD.
His research interests span sustainable
smart manufacturing, additive and
advanced manufacturing, ﬁnite element
modeling, machine learning, materials
design for biomedical applications, and
nanomaterials.
He has received several awards,
including multiple Expo Live 2020
Dubai University Innovation Awards,
the Sandooq Al Watan Research
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As educators, our role is not
merely to impart knowledge but
to ignite curiosity, challenge
perceptions, and equip students
with the tools to lead in a
changing world.
in India. The university's leadership
team includes Dr. Atul Chauhan
(Chancellor and President), Dr. Vajahat
Hussain (CEO), Dr. Saif Al Seiari
(Vice Chancellor), and Prof. Raﬁd
Alkhaddar (Pro-Vice Chancellor).
Amity University Dubai is rooted in
the vision of the Amity Education
Group, which was founded over three
decades ago and now supports a
community of over 250,000 students,
85,000 alumni, and 6,000 faculty
members worldwide. Amity university
is deeply committed to creating a
positive and lasting impact on the
world, society, and the environment. It
brings together exceptional faculty,
scientists, and students from around the
globe—individuals who share a
passion for innovation, excellence, and
social good. This commitment to
meaningful change deﬁnes the very
framework that not only maps out
technical knowledge but also
emphasizes their practical application
of skills and competencies with
responsibility across real-world
settings which focusses on
IT/numeracy literacy, Social Skills,
Leadership skills, Guided projects and
Internships. According to Dr. Kannan,
the gap between academia and industry
doesn't arise from a lack of knowledge
but due lack of conﬁdence to
demonstrate skills on their ﬁrst job
project. "The industry doesn't just want
students who know," he asserts,
"Industry wants students who can show
leadership in action from their very
ﬁrst day."
This emphasis on "students are the
centre of our universe" is what sets
Amity University Dubai's approach
apart from its counterparts under Dr.
Kannan's Engineering leadership. Dr.
Kannan stresses that while theoretical
excellence forms the foundation,
practical demonstration of skills and
competencies is the true
diﬀerentiator. In today's competitive
world, companies are looking for
graduates who are not only well-versed
in their domain but can also think
critically, collaborate, communicate
eﬀectively, and hit the ground running.
"You might graduate with a high
GPA," he notes, "but if you can't put
the learning into action through a
project or show how you solved a real-
world problem, your degree becomes
just a piece of paper."
To bridge this divide, he encourages
students to take a proactive role in
Career Mapping and CV
building—not merely listing
achievements but crafting narratives
that reﬂect impact, initiative, and
problem-solving ability. According to
him, CV building starts from primary
school, where school teachers have the
responsibility of identifying the core
core of the Amity ethos: a shared belief
that, together, they can help build a
better world.
At the core of Dr. Kannan's educational
philosophy is a belief that knowledge
without application and societal impact
is incomplete. To truly prepare students
for the world beyond the classroom, he
advocates for a Student Tangible
Skills Matrix—a structured
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Weakness is a
shadow, Strength
is the light, I follow
the light.
skills of a student and not merely
dumping curriculum content, which
might be irrelevant to an individual
learner. From contributing to
collaborative research clusters to
engaging in industry projects and
community work, each experience
becomes a stepping stone in a student's
journey toward professional readiness.
"A strong CV doesn't just talk about
education," Dr. Kannan advises, "it
reﬂects evolution—how a student grew
in their skills, conﬁdence, and
contribution to society."
Amity students are mentored and
provided adequate opportunities to put
their leadership skills into action. They
are trained to organize and lead
national and international-level
conferences. The best example of this
was the NEXUS 1.0, NEXUS 2.0 and
Biogenesis Amity Dubai student-led
UAE national-level seminar and
conferences, where School, UG/PG
students from various parts of the UAE
participated to present their research
papers. These types of networking
events empower students to practice
leadership skills that will enable them
to succeed both academically and
beyond the classroom, encouraging
them to explore their interests and
passions through independent study
and research.
Mission to motivate Science and
Engineering
Despite remarkable strides in higher
education, women remain
underrepresented in science,
technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM) ﬁelds
worldwide—a gender gap that
continues to persist across all levels.
The United Nations has long
championed gender equality as a
cornerstone of global development,
recognizing that empowering women
and girls is not only a matter of justice
but a catalyst for progress across all
Sustainable Development Goals.
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I enjoy failing as it
trains me in learning
for signiﬁcant
success.
In this spirit, Dr. Sathish Kannan has
been a vocal advocate for increasing
the visibility and participation of
women in STEM at Amity University
Dubai. Through a series of purposeful
initiatives, he has created platforms for
women students and faculty to engage
with leading scientists, technologists,
entrepreneurs, C-suite leaders, and
social activists. These interactions
address key challenges—ranging from
societal expectations and cultural
barriers to representation and work-
life-career balance—while equipping
women with the conﬁdence and skills
needed to thrive in competitive
domains. A signature element of his
eﬀorts includes a dynamic lecture
series spotlighting successful women
across disciplines, oﬀering role models
who inspire, empower, and ignite
ambition.
The Engineer with a Social Heart
Beyond his academic accomplishments
and research contributions, Dr. Sathish
Kannan believes that true success is
measured by the impact one makes
on the lives of fellow citizens and the
environment. For him, education is
not just a privilege but a
responsibility—one that should be used
to uplift communities, especially those
living on the margins. This belief is not
conﬁned to words; it's reﬂected in his
actions.
One of the most powerful examples of
to the latest technologies as they move
on in their academic phase. His work
didn't just change the
infrastructure/building—it restored
dignity and hope to the village
children and their families in the
community. For him, sustainable
development begins not with grand
budgets and fancy declarations but
with small, meaningful changes that
create real, immediate value and boost
their personal attitude to uplift them
from poverty.
Blueprints for a Plastic-Free Future
In line with his community-centric
values, Dr. Kannan is also a
passionate environmental advocate.
One of the causes he fervently
champions is the elimination of
plastic usage through the
introduction of engineered materials.
Whether on campus or in the wider
community, he consistently pushes for
eco-conscious practices, encouraging
students and faculty alike to opt for
sustainable materials and mindful
consumption.
He believes that engineers and
educators have a moral obligation to
lead by example, not just in
laboratories or lecture halls, but in the
way they interact with the society
around them. In partnership with UAE
NGOs committed to environmental
sustainability, eﬀorts are underway to
his commitment to social impact is his
transformation of a local school in
his native village in India, where
students were once deprived of even
the most basic amenities. He says,
"There is a vast social divide in this
world where one group of privileged
class of students are designing human
space settlement in Mars while other
society of students are worried about
their next day meal to survive on
earth".
Dr. Kannan explains. "To bring dreams
into action requires a basic life
foundation—and that foundation
starts with students' attitude,
motivated parents, resourceful
teachers, technological classrooms,
safe drinking water, clean toilets,
and electricity."
Dr. Kannan and his family personally
led the eﬀorts to improve the
infrastructure, ensuring the school was
equipped with comfortable seating
benches, adequate lighting,
instructional delivery kits, e-Boards,
and learning materials. His motivated
team, comprising Mrs. Vijayalakshmi,
Mrs. Sowmya, Mr. Diwakaran, Mrs.
Praveena, Mr. Shreyas, and Mr.
Santhosh, were instrumental in
managing the delivery of this
infrastructure and made it accessible to
the students. Regular training sessions
are conducted for these village students
to uplift their conﬁdence and exposure
create a plastic-free Amity University
Dubai campus, further reinforcing the
community's commitment to a greener,
more sustainable future.
A Creative Approach to Inclusive
Education
Dr. Kannan strongly believes in
delivering education to meet the
unique needs of students, rather than
imposing a rigid curriculum. This
philosophy is evident in the diverse,
hands-on learning experiences he
fosters, which not only address
academic goals but also promote
inclusivity and real-world applications.
A prime example of this approach can
be seen in the recent collaboration
between his team of UG students from
Amity University Dubai's Architecture
and Interior Design programs and PPG.
On 22nd February 2025, his team, led
by Mr. Abraham, participated in a
Community Engagement Program at
Al Ibtisama Special Needs School in
Sharjah, UAE. Over a span of seven
students with special needs and
disabilities.
The Amity students' involvement
extended beyond just the artwork; they
worked collaboratively with faculty
members, including Mr. Abraham,
Prof. Niva, and Dr. Lamiaa, in
partnership with Al Ibtisama School,
Sharjah, and PPG paints. On the ﬁnal
day, the artwork came to life during a
joint workshop, creating a lasting bond
between the Amity students and the
months, the Amity students were
trained to work on a project that
focused on the developmental stages of
a special needs child with disabilities.
The initiative, which began with a two-
day workshop at Amity University
Dubai, culminated in the creation of 18
vibrant art panels designed by 60
students. These panels were carefully
crafted to represent the diﬀerent stages
of childhood development,
highlighting both the artistic process
and the value of social inclusion for
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approach to research management, this
framework model sets Amity
University Dubai apart, oﬀering such
an extensive and integrated research
ecosystem where all stakeholders,
namely Industry, Government,
Schools, University Students, Overseas
Research Fellows from Higher
Education Institutes, and Community
NGOs, are partnered in their eﬀorts.
Impact on Aerospace Manufacturing
Innovation
Dr. Kannan's industry expertise spans
New Product Introduction, Partnership
Management, Research & Technology,
Manufacturing Technology
Acquisitions, and Design &
Manufacturing Engineering. He led
global engineering teams responsible
for the design, supply, and lifecycle
management of propulsion products
and systems for major aerospace
company Rolls-Royce in support of
Boeing and Airbus products. As
Engineering Program Manager for the
Externals & Control Systems Sub-
System on the Trent 1000-TEN engine
for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner™, he
oversaw 67 engineering product
change packages, the development of
over 100 subsystem certiﬁcation
reports with the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA, USA), and
managed an annual budget exceeding
over large number.
His leadership was instrumental in
achieving FAA airworthiness
certiﬁcation and in delivering over 50
engineering milestones annually. Dr.
Kannan also played a key role in
strategy development for engineering
teams, technology road mapping, and
intellectual property, with a target of 20
patents per year. He led multiple
advanced manufacturing initiatives,
including additive manufacturing of
titanium stator vanes, powder
Accreditation (CAA), reinforcing the
institution's academic adherence to the
UAE vision 2031. Managing the
academic journey of over 1,500
engineering students in the past 10
years, he has successfully worked on a
tangible skills framework that helps to
bridge the gap between industry and
academia. In addition to the knowledge
and skills, the Amity University
industry advisory boards ensured that
student competency and responsibility
factors are relevant and deliver impact.
Dr. Kannan works closely with the
Ministry of Higher Education and
Scientiﬁc Research (MoHESR) to
support institutional licenses, while
also pioneering new Master's programs
in critical areas such as Artiﬁcial
Intelligence and Cybersecurity. His
vision extends to establishing robust
faculty development frameworks,
including promotion policies, KPIs,
and appraisal systems that support
sustainable academic growth. Beyond
institutional advancement, he has been
a champion of global engagement,
spearheading international
partnerships, student exchange Amity
University Dubai currently does not
have a PhD program s, and cross-
border university collaborations. At the
grassroots level, he promotes
engineering awareness among youth by
collaborating with national schools on
competitions, seminars, and talent-
building initiatives. His holistic
leadership approach has not only
elevated academic standards but also
embedded sustainability, inclusivity,
and future-readiness into the DNA of
engineering education at Amity
University Dubai.
Dr. Kannan has strategically
spearheaded inter engineering
consortiums with international
metallurgy for turbine discs, and
friction welding for compressor blades,
in collaboration with UK university
research partnerships. Notably, he
spearheaded the modernization of
Rolls-Royce manufacturing capability
through introduction of automated
critical edge machining processes,
replacing manual polishing methods
across the Rolls-Royce global supply
chain, signiﬁcantly enhancing engine
and passenger safety. He also
developed and implemented
operational structures for new
capability acquisition projects, risk
management strategies, and
productivity improvements, achieving
a 20% eﬃciency gain within the
subsystem, leading to an annual
savings of over large number. As a
recognized industry subject matter
expert, Dr. Kannan inﬂuenced Rolls-
Royce manufacturing policies, audited
manufacturing supply chains, authored
technical guidelines, served on the
Rolls-Royce Patent Committee, and
contributed to major Rolls-Royce
research programme initiatives like
SAMULET (Technology Strategy
Board, UK Government, and Rolls-
Royce R&T) and European Union-
funded projects.
Charting New Educational Pathways
In his current role as Dean of
Engineering and Director of University
Research at Amity University Dubai,
Dr. Kannan has redeﬁned what it
means to lead with purpose in higher
education. With strategic oversight
spanning academic governance, policy
formation, and international
collaboration, he has transformed the
School of Engineering into a hub of
innovation and excellence. Under his
leadership, nine core undergraduate
engineering programs were launched,
which received recent accreditations
from the Commission for Academic
community they served. This project
was covered by the South Indian media
outlet MediaOne UAE, showcasing the
successful fusion of education, art, and
social responsibility.
Through such community-driven
initiatives, Dr. Kannan's educational
leadership and philosophy of adapting
teaching to meet the needs of
individual students was truly
embodied, encouraging future
architects and designers to not only
consider technical skills but also the
broader impact of their work on
society.
Building the UAE Research
Ecosystem through stakeholder
engagement
The UAE Research and Development
Council was established in 2021 with
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin
Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign
Aﬀairs, as chairman and Her
Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of
State for Public Education and
Advanced Technology, as secretary-
general. The UAE's R&D ecosystem
aims to strengthen the performance and
eﬀectiveness of the nation's science
and technology sector, a key pillar of
UAE Vision 2031.
Amity university has developed a 5
year vision which encompasses the
various stakeholders (government,
industry, schools, professional bodies,
community NGO's) as part of their
research ecosystem. This strategic
framework aims to build a world-class
research environment in line with the
UAE 2031 vision. This comprehensive
vision integrates research clusters,
centres of excellence, industry
engagement, and international
Research Excellence," was developed
to attract and groom the Amity
University Dubai undergraduate
students to take up research training
with the Amity faculty. Structured
research workshops and training
sessions are organized for UG students
who have shown excellent response to
train on research methodologies and
have produced journal papers of the
highest quality, working under the
mentorship of Amity faculty.
Currently, there are close to 200 Amity
UG students who are undergoing
research training. The third scheme,
named "Industry Research Aﬃliation,"
encourages industry specialists
interested in pursuing research to join
Amity. They are provided opportunity
to train with Amity faculty on their
topic of research and produce research
publications to enhance their career
proﬁle. The fourth scheme is focused
on aspiring school students who, in
recent times, have shown great interest
in joining the "Amity Research
Academy". These school students are
provided research training for 1 week
in the Amity Dubai campus on various
topics related to the profession,
assigned an Amity and School faculty
mentor to kick start their research
journey.
Through these highly eﬃcient research
management schemes, Dr. Kannan
claims signiﬁcant operational cost
savings related to research salaries and
student stipends alone, while the
university research productivity
doubled in publications number and
boosted the paper per faculty ratio.
These schemes help to strengthen
faculty research, improve university
research productivity, enhance UG
student research skills, create a pool of
school research students, expand
global collaborative networks, and
enhance industry and community
connections. With a structured
collaboration to drive impactful
innovation.
To conduct research, signiﬁcant
resources in the form of funding,
research personnel, salaries, student
stipends, capital equipment, testing
facilities, and infrastructure are
required. Currently, there are 79 full
time faculty who are engaged in active
research. The School of Engineering,
Architecture and Interior Design leads
the Amity University Dubai research
eﬀorts with more than 65% of the total
research contributions and are at the
forefront of research performance with
presence of world top 2% scientist and
senior specialist in the team. When
asked how the research productivity of
Amity University Dubai doubled? Dr.
Kannan replied: "Strategic People
Strength (SPS)". Under his leadership,
four strategic schemes were introduced
to attract research personnel to Amity
University Dubai. The ﬁrst scheme,
named "Senior Research Aﬃliation,"
focused on senior and post-doctoral
research fellow aﬃliations that
attracted early career and senior
research professionals from all over the
world to obtain UAE independent
research experience while working
oﬄine from their respective higher
education institutes overseas. This
scheme became an instant hit with
recently completed PhD students and
entry-level professors who did not
have the opportunity to travel to Dubai
due to their current work
commitments, but still got trained with
Amity faculty on their topic of
research. Currently, there are close to
120 post-doctoral research fellows who
are undergoing research training with
Amity University Dubai. Upon
completion of the expected
requirements, the trainees are issued
with a research experience letter that
secures their intent to gain a UAE
independent research work experience.
The second scheme, named "Student
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Engineering professional bodies such
as the IEEE, ASME, IMechE, ICE,
Royal Aeronautical Society, ASCE,
CIBSE, CIOB, ASHRAE, IStructE,
Council of Architecture etc., ensuring
that these partnerships go beyond
symbolic aﬃliations. According to
him, these professional bodies are the
custodian of engineering curriculum
and he has actively engaged these
bodies in discussions around
maximizing student registrations,
training students for Chartered
Engineer status, enabling students to
These eﬀective initiatives underscores
Dr. Kannan's pivotal role in driving
innovations in engineering practices,
particularly during his tenure at Rolls-
Royce, and his dedication to mentoring
students and advancing research in the
academic sector while maintaining
social connect.
These contributions emphasize the
impact Dr. Kannan has made, not only
in aerospace engineering but also in
shaping future generations of engineers
through his work in academia and
engagement to inspire and empower
students, fostering collaboration and
positive change within communities
and organizations. His journey in
instilling the importance of social
leadership and equality in the minds of
the next generation of students
continue.
gain global exposure through student-
led conferences, professional events,
and community awareness campaigns.
Dr. Kannan has also emphasized the
importance of ethics and compliance
training, advocating for the inclusion
of Codes of Conduct within academic
environments. His vision extends to
incorporating professional body
participation in both teaching and
research, and exploring the formation
of a combined International
Engineering Association consortium
within the UAE.
BM
I N D I A
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n a landscape where digital
I
transformation is accelerating
rapidly, organizations increasingly
face an array of cyber threats that test
their preparedness and resilience. For
over two and a half decades, Akshay
Garkel has stood at the forefront of this
battleﬁeld, providing leadership,
foresight, and strategy to businesses
navigating the ever-evolving realm of
Information and Cybersecurity. As
Partner and Leader of Cyber at Grant
Thornton Bharat LLP, Akshay's work
continues to shape the cybersecurity
posture of some of the most inﬂuential
ﬁnancial institutions in India and
beyond.
A Career Forged in Cyber Frontlines
Akshay's professional journey is a
tapestry woven through high-stakes
engagements and complex regulatory
landscapes. His experience spans India,
the Asia-Paciﬁc region, and the Middle
East, giving him a uniquely global
perspective on digital threats and
defense mechanisms. Akshay's domain
that combine Indian roots with
international insights. Within this
ecosystem, Akshay steers cybersecurity
engagements that prioritize client-
centricity, risk mitigation, and strategic
business enablement.
His mandate extends well beyond
securing IT systems. Akshay is
responsible for driving the P&L of the
cybersecurity service line, overseeing
bid management, ensuring value
expertise is not limited to technical
acumen; he brings a powerful blend of
business insight, practice management,
and risk governance to every role he
undertakes.
Over the years, Akshay has developed
and managed cybersecurity strategies
for public and private sector banks,
mutual funds, insurance companies,
stock exchanges, and capital markets.
His understanding of ﬁnancial systems
and their intricate interdependencies
allows him to design solutions that are
not only secure but also aligned with
business outcomes.
Grant Thornton Bharat: A Platform
for Purposeful Impact
In his current role at Grant Thornton
Bharat LLP, Akshay leads the Cyber
practice within a ﬁrm recognized for its
commitment to shaping a "Vibrant
Bharat." With more than 11,000
professionals across 19 locations, the
ﬁrm delivers consulting, assurance,
tax, and digital transformation services
delivery, and nurturing high-
performance teams. His eﬀorts support
Grant Thornton's broader goal of
helping clients build agile, resilient,
and growth-ready digital organizations.
Key Strengths and Skillsets
Akshay's expansive skillset enables
him to deliver a 360-degree approach
to cybersecurity management. These
include:
with a value-driven approach to
cybersecurity investments.
•Risk & Legal Considerations:
Navigating the intersection of
cybersecurity regulations, privacy
mandates, and contractual
obligations.
•Channel & Partner Ecosystem:
Collaborating with technology
vendors and alliances to deliver
best-in-class solutions.
•P&L Management: Strategically
overseeing the revenue and
proﬁtability of the cyber service
line.
•Practice Building: Creating
scalable service models,
developing new oﬀerings, and
mentoring consultants and
engineers.
•Sales & Business Development:
Engaging C-suite stakeholders Akshay
Garkel
Safeguarding Trust in a Borderless Digital Economy
Cybersecurity is no longer
a technical issue alone —
it's a boardroom priority. I
see it as my role to bridge
the gap between risk and
business value.
Grant Thornton Bharat LLP
Partner & Leader
The Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025
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•Subject Matter Expertise: Deep
knowledge of regulatory
frameworks such as RBI, SEBI,
IRDAI, and global standards
including ISO 27001, NIST, and
GDPR.
Deep Engagement in the Financial
Sector
Akshay's legacy is most visibly etched
into the ﬁnancial services sector, where
his engagements have safeguarded
national infrastructure and corporate
ecosystems alike. He has been
instrumental in helping banks adopt
secure digital banking channels,
enabling stock exchanges to harden
their operational continuity, and
advising mutual fund houses on
compliance-driven security
frameworks. His strategic inputs often
serve as a bridge between boardroom
objectives and operational resilience.
Mentor, Builder, Strategist
Akshay's impact goes beyond direct
client engagements. A signiﬁcant part
of his career has involved team
building and mentorship. He has
developed diverse and inclusive teams
equipped to handle multi-disciplinary
challenges. His leadership style
balances technical guidance with
emotional intelligence, fostering
environments where young
professionals can evolve into future
cybersecurity leaders.
Delivering Solutions Across Complex
Terrain
Cybersecurity is not a one-size-ﬁts-all
discipline. Akshay's engagements often
begin with a comprehensive business
assessment, followed by the tailoring
of solutions that balance security,
usability, and cost. Whether it's threat
intelligence, security operations center
(SOC) design, governance risk and
negotiable. Akshay's advisory work
supports this mission by building
trusted infrastructures that are both
secure and scalable.
Grant Thornton Bharat, under leaders
like Akshay, plays a vital role in
enabling these changes by providing
tailored, localised, and forward-
looking consulting services. Their
collective vision is not just to mitigate
cyber threats but to foster innovation,
trust, and inclusivity in India's digital
ecosystem.
Thought Leadership and Advocacy
As an industry thought leader, Akshay
actively contributes to the dialogue
around cybersecurity's evolving role.
He is frequently invited to panels,
forums, and conferences to share
insights on emerging threats,
governance frameworks, and the
human side of cybersecurity. His voice
lends weight to critical conversations
around regulatory reforms and digital
ethics.
Future-Forward Vision
Looking ahead, Akshay Garkel is
focused on preparing businesses for the
next frontier of cyber threats — from
AI-enabled attacks and quantum
computing risks to ethical hacking and
zero-trust architectures. He sees a
future where cybersecurity is not just
about protection but about enabling
smarter, faster, and more responsible
growth.
His mission remains clear: to help
businesses stay one step ahead in a
landscape where security, compliance,
and innovation converge.
compliance (GRC), or incident
response planning, his projects are
known for practical eﬃcacy and long-
term sustainability.
In addition to addressing current
threats, Akshay emphasizes resilience.
He equips businesses with proactive
monitoring, advanced analytics, and
response protocols that minimize
downtime and reputational damage.
His ability to translate technical
vulnerabilities into business risk
metrics makes him a trusted advisor to
executive boards and audit committees.
Cyber as a Business Enabler
Akshay strongly believes that
cybersecurity is no longer a back-oﬃce
function — it's a boardroom priority.
His practice positions cyber as a
business enabler that accelerates digital
trust, customer conﬁdence, and
operational agility. This shift in
narrative is particularly important in
sectors like banking and insurance,
where consumer interactions are
increasingly digital.
Under Akshay's leadership, Grant
Thornton Bharat helps clients develop
cyber strategies that align with broader
digital transformation goals. These
include:
Integrating cybersecurity into cloud
migration projects
Designing secure-by-design
architecture for ﬁntech platforms
Building compliance roadmaps aligned
with international regulations
An Ally to India's Digital Aspirations
Akshay's work aligns seamlessly with
India's broader digital vision. As the
government pushes for ﬁnancial
inclusion, digital identity, and smart
governance, the need for robust
cybersecurity measures becomes non-
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BM
I N D I A
It is the mark of
an educated mind
to be able to
entertain a
thought without
accepting it.

n today's ever-changing
I
technological world, engineering
remains at the core of industry
innovation and societal progress. As an
integral driver of economic and
technological growth, engineering
shapes sectors like healthcare, energy,
transportation, and manufacturing,
while also inﬂuencing the future of our
communities. However, despite the
signiﬁcance of engineering in our lives,
barriers to entry persist, especially for
underrepresented groups. Engineering
education and ecosystems still face the
challenge of not only providing access
but fostering environments where all
individuals can thrive, develop, and
reach their full potential.
While access to engineering programs
has certainly increased in recent years,
real equity goes far beyond simply
opening doors. It requires creating
ecosystems that support individuals
from diverse backgrounds and ensure
their success in a competitive and
demanding ﬁeld. Engineering
educators, professionals, and
organizations must make concerted
eﬀorts to foster truly inclusive
environments that enable every student
and engineer to feel valued, supported,
and capable of excelling in their
careers.
The Current State of Engineering
Access
Over time, initiatives have been
launched to increase the enrollment of
women, minorities, and other
underrepresented groups in
way educational institutions,
workplaces, and industry leaders
approach diversity, inclusion, and
belonging.
1.Inclusive Curriculum Design
and Pedagogy
To build a truly equitable
engineering ecosystem, curricula
and teaching methodologies must
be adapted to meet the needs of
diverse students. Traditional
engineering education often
adheres to rigid, theoretical, and
uniform approaches that may not
resonate with all learners,
particularly those from non-
traditional backgrounds. A more
inclusive curriculum incorporates
practical, hands-on projects that
show students how their work
impacts society. By including real-
world applications in lessons,
students can see the direct
relevance of their studies to
broader social issues.
Additionally, it is essential to
highlight the contributions of
engineers from various cultural
and social backgrounds. This not
only acknowledges the importance
of diversity in engineering but also
helps students from
underrepresented groups see role
models who reﬂect their
experiences. Furthermore,
addressing the societal, ethical,
and environmental implications of
engineering projects helps students
recognize the broader impact of
their work and fosters a sense of
engineering ﬁelds. These include
scholarships, mentorships, outreach
programs, and eﬀorts to diversify
faculty. Such initiatives have been
instrumental in ensuring that
historically marginalized groups have
an opportunity to enter the ﬁeld of
engineering. As a result, there is a
growing number of diverse students in
engineering classrooms across the
globe.
Yet, despite these positive steps toward
increasing participation, true equity in
engineering still remains a challenge.
Many students from underrepresented
backgrounds continue to face systemic
barriers in their academic and
professional paths. From ﬁnancial
diﬃculties to lack of academic
preparedness or mentorship, these
obstacles limit their chances of
succeeding in the ﬁeld.
Thus, the conversation must evolve
from simply providing access to
transforming engineering ecosystems
so that these environments can actively
support and sustain the success of all
individuals, especially those who have
historically been underserved.
Shifting the Focus from Access to
Inclusion
While access to engineering education
is essential, it is just the ﬁrst step
toward building a more equitable ﬁeld.
Once students are in the system, it is
equally important to ensure that they
feel welcome, supported, and equipped
to succeed. This requires changing the
Building Equitable
Beyond Access
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responsibility to the communities
they serve.
2.Mentorship and Support
Systems
For students to thrive, they need
more than just access to
educational resources; they need
mentorship and guidance
throughout their educational
journey. Underrepresented
students in engineering often
struggle with a lack of mentorship,
especially when they are one of
the few individuals from their
background in a classroom or
program. Engaging with mentors
who share similar experiences can
make a signiﬁcant diﬀerence,
helping these students overcome
challenges and navigate the
academic and professional
landscape.
Universities and professional
organizations should prioritize
mentorship programs that connect
students with mentors who have
walked similar paths. These
mentors can oﬀer career advice,
emotional support, and help
students build the networks
necessary for success. Moreover,
peer-to-peer mentoring programs,
where students support one
another, can create an environment
of solidarity, where everyone's
success is celebrated.
3.Creating Collaborative and
Inclusive Cultures
An equitable engineering
ecosystem thrives in an
environment where collaboration
and mutual respect are
emphasized. Engineering is not
just about individual
accomplishments; it's about
working together to solve complex
problems. Encouraging
collaboration among students from
diverse backgrounds can yield
innovative solutions that reﬂect a
range of perspectives and
experiences.
Beyond diversity in the student
body, inclusivity must extend into
professional settings, where
diverse teams often perform better
by oﬀering a variety of approaches
to problem-solving. By fostering a
culture of collaboration in
engineering classrooms and
workplaces, institutions can create
environments where everyone
feels empowered to contribute
their ideas and insights.
4.Financial Support and Career
Opportunities
Financial barriers are one of the
most signiﬁcant challenges
preventing underrepresented
students from entering and
completing engineering programs.
Many engineering students,
especially those from low-income
backgrounds, face ﬁnancial
pressures that can interfere with
their studies. Scholarships,
internships, and fellowships that
speciﬁcally target
underrepresented groups can help
reduce these barriers.
Furthermore, engineering
companies must oﬀer paid
internships and career
development opportunities that
allow students to gain practical,
real-world experience while still in
school. These experiences provide
valuable hands-on learning
opportunities and enable students
to build networks that can support
them after graduation. Without
these opportunities, many students
may struggle to transition from
academia into the workforce.
5.Dismantling Barriers in the
Workplace
Once students complete their
engineering education, they must
be prepared to enter a workforce
that has long been dominated by
certain groups. Although there has
been progress in increasing
diversity at the entry level, many
engineering industries still lack
diversity at senior leadership
positions. Companies must ensure
that their workplaces are inclusive
and oﬀer opportunities for growth
for all employees, regardless of
background.
This means ensuring equal access
to career development, training
programs, and leadership roles.
Creating an inclusive culture
where diverse perspectives are not
only welcomed but actively sought
can help companies attract and
retain the best talent. Additionally,
fostering an inclusive work
environment involves dismantling
any discriminatory practices and
actively supporting the
professional growth of employees
from underrepresented groups.
Conclusion: A Vision for Equitable
Engineering Ecosystems
Building equitable engineering
ecosystems is a complex, ongoing
process. It requires more than just
access; it demands an intentional eﬀort
to ensure that every individual feels
supported, valued, and empowered to
succeed. Engineering institutions,
companies, and professionals must
work together to foster environments
that promote collaboration,
mentorship, ﬁnancial support, and
equal opportunities for growth.
By creating ecosystems where
diversity, inclusion, and equity are not
just buzzwords but guiding principles,
we can unlock the full potential of all
engineering students and professionals.
This will not only drive innovation but
also ensure that engineering solutions
reﬂect the diverse needs of our global
society. Through these eﬀorts, the
future of engineering can become truly
equitable—one that empowers
individuals from all backgrounds to
contribute to a brighter, more
sustainable future.
BM
I N D I A
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ndia's ﬁnancial services sector has
I
transformed, expanding beyond
banks and brokers to a vibrant
space powered by technology,
education, and retail participation. Yet,
until recently, the industry lacked one
thing: a unifying platform to bring it all
together. Not just to sell, but to
connect, educate, and grow.
That's where Karan Kohli comes in.
As the Chief Operating Oﬃcer of
Finbridge Expo, Kohli created a stage
for the entire ecosystem. From ﬁntech
pioneers to mutual fund giants, he has
helped shape the way India learns,
shares, and does business in ﬁnance
today.
Karan Kohli, the Chief Operating
Oﬃcer of Finbridge Expo, has been
instrumental in shaping India's premier
ﬁnancial services and technology
exhibition. Since its inception in 2014,
Finbridge Expo has emerged as a
pivotal platform for ﬁnancial service
providers, technology innovators,
investors, and traders to converge,
collaborate, and contribute to the
growth of India's ﬁnancial ecosystem.
digital transformation of India's
ﬁnancial markets. This integration has
not only attracted tech-savvy
participants but has also educated
traditional ﬁnancial entities about the
beneﬁts of adopting new technologies.
Educational Initiatives and
Conferences
Beyond exhibitions, Kohli has
emphasized the importance of
education in ﬁnancial empowerment.
Finbridge Expo hosts conferences
addressing critical issues in ﬁnancial
services and technology, featuring
industry stalwarts who share insights
and strategies. These sessions have
become instrumental in shaping the
discourse around ﬁnancial planning,
Early Vision and Strategic
Leadership
From the outset, Kohli envisioned
Finbridge Expo as more than just an
exhibition—it was to be a catalyst for
ﬁnancial literacy and inclusion.
Recognizing the fragmented nature of
ﬁnancial services and the rapid
technological advancements, he aimed
to create a uniﬁed platform that would
bridge gaps between various
stakeholders. Under his leadership,
Finbridge Expo has consistently
provided opportunities for mutual
funds, insurance companies, broking
ﬁrms, banks, and NBFCs to connect
directly with consumers and
intermediaries.
Expanding Horizons: Incorporating
Technology
Understanding the transformative
power of technology in ﬁnance, Kohli
ensured that Finbridge Expo remained
at the forefront of showcasing
technological innovations. The expo
has become a hub for ﬁntech
companies to display cutting-edge
tools and services, facilitating the
Karan
Kohli
Championing Financial Literacy Through Finbridge Expo
Karan Kohli
Chief Operating Ofﬁcer,
Finbridge Expo
The Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025
www.businessmindsmedia.in032 www.businessmindsmedia.in033

investment strategies, and
technological adoption.
Workshops and Skill Development
Recognizing the diverse needs of
investors and traders, Kohli introduced
interactive workshops tailored to
various skill levels. These sessions
combine theoretical knowledge with
practical exercises, enabling
participants to develop competencies in
speciﬁc areas such as stock market
analysis, mutual fund investments, and
the use of trading platforms. This
hands-on approach has signiﬁcantly
contributed to enhancing ﬁnancial
literacy among attendees.
Building a Collaborative Ecosystem
Under Kohli's stewardship, Finbridge
Expo has evolved into a collaborative
ecosystem where ﬁnancial service
providers, technology ﬁrms, and
consumers engage in meaningful
dialogues. The expo facilitates
partnerships, fosters innovation, and
encourages the exchange of ideas,
thereby contributing to the overall
development of the ﬁnancial sector in
India.
sustainable investing, reﬂects the
expo's commitment to staying relevant
and informative. This adaptability has
solidiﬁed its position as a leading event
in the ﬁnancial sector.
Medals of Merit
The success of Finbridge Expo under
Kohli's leadership is evident in its
growing attendance and the positive
feedback from participants. The expo
has become a benchmark for similar
events, setting standards in
organization, content, and participant
engagement. Its impact extends beyond
the conﬁnes of the exhibition halls,
inﬂuencing policy discussions and
industry practices.
Envisioning a Brighter Future
Looking ahead, Kohli envisions
expanding Finbridge Expo's reach to
more cities, incorporating virtual
elements to increase accessibility, and
introducing new themes that address
the latest challenges and opportunities
in the ﬁnancial sector. His forward-
thinking approach ensures that the
expo will continue to be a vital
platform for education, innovation, and
collaboration.
Conclusion
Karan Kohli's leadership at Finbridge
Expo exempliﬁes a commitment to
fostering ﬁnancial literacy, promoting
technological integration, and building
collaborative networks. Through his
strategic vision and dedication, the
expo has become a cornerstone event
that signiﬁcantly contributes to the
growth and development of India's
ﬁnancial services and technology
sectors.
Commitment to Financial Inclusion
Kohli's commitment to ﬁnancial
inclusion is evident in the expo's
outreach initiatives. By bringing
together a diverse array of ﬁnancial
products and services under one roof,
Finbridge Expo empowers individuals
from various socio-economic
backgrounds to make informed
ﬁnancial decisions. This inclusive
approach aligns with broader national
objectives of enhancing ﬁnancial
literacy and accessibility.
Adapting to Changing Landscapes
In response to the evolving ﬁnancial
landscape, Kohli has ensured that
Finbridge Expo remains agile and
responsive. The incorporation of
emerging trends, such as digital
currencies, robo-advisory services, and
When people are ﬁnancially
literate, they make better
decisions. That's why
education has always been
at the heart of everything we
do at Finbridge.
BM
I N D I A
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The engineer has
been, and is, a
maker of history.

or generations, engineering
F
education in many parts of the
world has relied heavily on
traditional models: rigid curricula,
theory-dense lectures, standardized
tests, and an emphasis on
memorization. While these methods
may have once aligned with industrial-
age needs, they fall short in preparing
students for the complex, ever-
evolving challenges of the 21st-century
workforce. The time has come to
rethink engineering education—not
just incrementally, but fundamentally.
The Problem with Rote Learning
Rote learning emphasizes repetition
and memorization. While this method
helps in acquiring foundational
knowledge, it often fails to cultivate
critical skills like problem-solving,
creativity, communication, and
adaptability—qualities that employers
today value more than textbook
proﬁciency. Engineering graduates
trained under rote-based systems
frequently struggle to bridge the gap
between classroom knowledge and
real-world application.
This disconnect becomes glaringly
evident in the workplace. Employers
learn resilience, which is far more
reﬂective of how real-world
engineering works.
Industry-Driven Curriculum Design
Another crucial evolution in
engineering education is the growing
involvement of industry in curriculum
design. Universities are forging
partnerships with tech companies,
manufacturing giants, startups, and
government agencies to co-create
syllabi that reﬂect actual market needs.
This collaborative approach ensures
students are trained on current tools,
technologies, and practices, rather than
outdated theories. It also opens
pathways for mentorship, internships,
and job placements, aligning academic
outcomes with professional
expectations.
For example, universities now
integrate industry-recognized
certiﬁcations in software tools like
MATLAB, SolidWorks, or Python
programming directly into coursework.
Emerging ﬁelds such as AI, sustainable
design, and robotics are being
embedded into foundational
engineering programs to future-proof
report that many graduates, despite
having impressive GPAs, lack the
practical competencies needed to
contribute meaningfully to projects.
They may know the theory behind
thermodynamics or circuit design, but
fall short when asked to troubleshoot a
real-life issue or communicate
technical details to cross-functional
teams.
The Shift Toward Experiential
Learning
To address this gap, educational
institutions around the world are
shifting toward experiential learning
models. These models prioritize active
engagement, hands-on practice, and
real-world problem-solving over
passive learning. Internships, capstone
projects, industry collaborations,
maker spaces, and problem-based
learning (PBL) environments are
becoming essential components of the
modern engineering curriculum.
Experiential learning not only deepens
understanding but also nurtures soft
skills—teamwork, leadership, and
empathy—which are vital in the
increasingly interdisciplinary nature of
engineering careers. It encourages
students to make mistakes, iterate, and
From Rote
to Real-World
Readiness
Rethinking Engineering Education
www.businessmindsmedia.in036 www.businessmindsmedia.in037

students against technological
obsolescence.
Assessment for Real Competency
Traditional assessments in engineering
education—midterms, ﬁnals, and
multiple-choice exams—often measure
recall more than understanding. A
growing movement is advocating for
competency-based assessment models.
These models evaluate students based
on their ability to apply concepts in
real-world contexts.
Instead of asking students to
regurgitate formulas, assessments
might involve building a prototype,
solving a community problem, writing
an engineering report, or presenting a
feasibility study. This model allows
students to demonstrate not just what
they know, but what they can do with
what they know.
Embracing Interdisciplinarity
Engineering today is rarely a solo
pursuit. Solving global challenges such
as climate change, healthcare
accessibility, or sustainable
infrastructure requires collaboration
across disciplines. As such,
engineering education must break out
of its silos.
Forward-thinking programs are now
incorporating elements of design
thinking, business strategy, public
policy, and environmental science into
engineering degrees. These
interdisciplinary approaches help
students see the broader implications
of their work and cultivate holistic
thinking.
Cultivating Lifelong Learners
Given the pace of technological
change, the idea that a four-year
engineering degree can prepare
someone for a lifelong career is
outdated. Today, engineers must
continuously upskill and adapt. Thus,
engineering education must instill not
only knowledge but a mindset of
lifelong learning.
Curricula should include modules on
learning how to learn, digital literacy,
and navigating online learning
platforms. Universities can also foster
alumni networks that oﬀer continued
education, certiﬁcations, and
workshops to stay ahead of industry
trends.
Inclusion and Equity in Engineering
Education
To truly rethink engineering education,
inclusivity must be at its core.
Diversity of background, gender,
socioeconomic status, and learning
styles enriches the problem-solving
process and ensures more equitable
technological outcomes.
Institutions should invest in outreach
programs, scholarships, and
mentorships for underrepresented
groups. Classrooms should
accommodate neurodiversity, provide
support for ﬁrst-generation college
students, and promote inclusive
teamwork dynamics.
Conclusion: From Knowing to Doing
The shift from rote learning to real-
world readiness is more than an
educational trend; it is an urgent
necessity. As the world grapples with
complex challenges that require
intelligent, ethical, and innovative
solutions, engineers must be equipped
with more than just theoretical
knowledge.
Rethinking engineering education
means creating environments where
students learn by doing, collaborate
across disciplines, stay curious, and
develop the resilience to solve
problems that may not yet exist. The
future of engineering demands nothing
less.
BM
I N D I A
www.businessmindsmedia.in038 www.businessmindsmedia.in039

r. Kushal Sanghvi's foray into
D
the world of advertising,
media, and communications
wasn't accidental. It was driven by an
early passion for storytelling and brand
strategy. Over the past 24+ years, this
zeal has evolved into a formidable
career marked by leadership across
formats — from print to digital,
television to out-of-home (OOH), and
even mobile-driven media revenue. His
journey isn't just about adapting to
change — it's about anticipating it and
shaping it.
A Digital Trailblazer: The
Rediﬀ.com Chapter
Among the turning points in Dr.
Sanghvi's career was being a founding
member of Rediﬀ.com, a pioneering
venture that helped shape India's
digital future. As part of the core team,
he didn't just witness the birth of
internet media in the country; he was
instrumental in sculpting it. This
experience gave him a solid grasp of
consumer behavior in the digital space,
product innovation, and engagement
strategy, foundational insights that
building, and succession planning. He
sees people not as resources to
manage, but as potential leaders to
nurture — a perspective that has
created resilient teams across
continents.
Strategy, Scale, and Synergy
In his current role as Chief Revenue
Oﬃcer at iCubesWire, Dr. Sanghvi
leads the company's eﬀorts across
India, Southeast Asia, and MENA
regions. iCubesWire is a well-regarded
MarTech entity that integrates cutting-
edge content, inﬂuencer marketing,
digital media, and ﬁlm production. Dr.
Sanghvi's responsibilities extend
beyond revenue — they touch product
innovation, operational scale-up, and
client growth strategies. He
collaborates closely with the leadership
team to build sustainable lines of
would guide his leadership in the years
to come.
Building from the Ground Up: The
Startup Inﬂuence
Dr. Sanghvi has repeatedly
demonstrated his ability to turn
startups into structured, thriving
businesses. From conceptualizing new
revenue streams to shaping brands
from scratch, he has played an active
role in every facet of early-stage
growth. His energy in helping
businesses scale has often been driven
by a creative thinker's mindset paired
with business acumen, a combination
rare and impactful in equal measure.
Growing Giants from the Ground
Up
A consistent theme across his career is
a commitment to building high-
performing teams. Dr. Sanghvi
believes that growing people is as
important as growing business. His
leadership philosophy places strong
emphasis on mentorship, culture-
Dr. Kushal
Sanghvi
Architect of
Integrated Media Innovation
Dr. Kushal Sanghvi
chief revenue ofﬁcer,
iCubesWire
The Inspiring Personality of the Year 2025
www.businessmindsmedia.in040 www.businessmindsmedia.in041

business and explore new commercial
frontiers.
iCubesWire Films: Where Stories
Come Alive
One of the jewels in the iCubesWire
crown is its ﬁlm division — a dynamic
content powerhouse guided by Dr.
Sanghvi's vision. With a team of over
300 creatives, the division oﬀers
cinematic storytelling infused with
emotional intelligence, technology, and
brand alignment. The mission? To
transform marketing briefs into visual
narratives that resonate deeply and
move the needle for clients.
The Rise of InﬂuenceZ
With the inﬂuencer economy booming,
Dr. Sanghvi also heads InﬂuenceZ — a
tech-enabled inﬂuencer marketing
platform designed to deliver end-to-
end campaign strategy, talent
management, and video production.
What sets the platform apart is its
integration of data, creative
storytelling, and technology, enabling
brands to connect with audiences in
meaningful and measurable ways. It is
not just about "inﬂuencing" but about
creating experiences that matter.
Voice in the Industry
Beyond corporate mandates, Dr.
Sanghvi actively contributes to the
larger marketing and content
ecosystem. As an Advisory Board
Member for both the Indian
Inﬂuencer Governing Council and
OAC & OAA, he plays a vital role in
shaping ethical practices, industry
frameworks, and innovation-led
agendas. His presence in these forums
reinforces his standing as a leader with
both vision and responsibility.
builds ecosystems that sustain and
scale it.
A Philosophy Rooted in People and
Purpose
What ultimately deﬁnes Dr. Sanghvi
isn't just his career arc, but his belief
system. He sees business as
human—driven by empathy,
communication, and collective
achievement. For him, the true ROI is
in creating environments where
innovation thrives and people ﬂourish.
Whether advising Fortune 500
companies or working with new
entrepreneurs, this philosophy remains
constant.
The Man Behind the Accolades
While his LinkedIn summary —
LinkedIn Top Voice | Digital
Transformer | Media-Content-
Specialist | Growth-Revenue Driver |
Marketing-Tech Learner | Agency
Leader | TED Speaker | Start-Up
Advisor — captures the breadth of his
experience, it doesn't quite do justice to
the impact he's made. Titles tell you
what someone does; actions reveal
who they are. And Dr. Sanghvi's
journey is one marked by substance,
strategy, and soul.
Reinventing the Future, One Idea at
a Time
As Dr. Sanghvi continues to lead,
build, teach, and inspire, his path
remains both grounded and forward-
thinking. His career is a powerful
reminder that true leadership isn't
about holding positions, it's about
shaping perspectives. With every
venture he touches and every
individual he mentors, he leaves a trail
of innovation and impact.
A Mentor in Academia
Dr. Sanghvi also lends his expertise to
academia. As visiting faculty at several
premier Indian and global institutions,
he teaches subjects that blend theory
with the real-world complexity of
brand management, digital ecosystems,
and integrated strategy. His students —
often future marketers, entrepreneurs,
and strategists — beneﬁt from insights
honed over decades in the trenches.
On the Global Stage
A regular speaker at international
summits, conferences, and think tanks,
Dr. Sanghvi brings clarity to
complexity. His keynote topics range
from omnichannel marketing and
MarTech innovation to content
economics and mobile behavior trends.
Attendees value his ability to distill
macro shifts into actionable takeaways.
He doesn't speak about the future — he
helps shape it.
Specialties That Deliver Results
Dr. Sanghvi's skill set is as varied as it
is specialized: negotiation, business
development, team building, creative
strategy, and digital intelligence. His
grasp on how to balance short-term
wins with long-term brand building has
made him a trusted advisor to
organizations across Asia and the U.S.
He doesn't merely manage P&L — he
In the world of media
and marketing, it's not
about selling
products; it's about
creating stories that
connect.
BM
I N D I A
www.businessmindsmedia.in042
An investment in An investment in An investment in
always pays always pays always pays
the best interest.the best interest.the best interest.

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