Empowering Academic Leaders: FICCI and MAHE Launch Leadership Program

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) launched the third Leadership Development Program. This initiative aims to equip academic leaders with essential skills through a three-day program featuring nine modules, focusing on challenges and innovations in higher education management.

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in partnership with the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has commenced its third Leadership Development Program today in Manipal, Karnataka. This notable initiative unites a diverse array of academic leaders for a rigorous three-day residential program hosted on the MAHE campus, presenting nine expertly crafted training modules aimed at fortifying leadership skills.

The program attracts directors, deans, registrars, and senior academics from various higher education institutions. It is meticulously designed to arm these professionals with the knowledge and skills vital for navigating the complexities of contemporary academia, emphasizing future readiness. Keynote speaker Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh highlighted the layers of effective leadership and the necessity of a structured framework to nurture potential leaders in education. He addressed existing challenges, including stakeholder engagement, budgetary concerns, and regulatory compliance, underscoring the importance of research, team-building, and strategic management capabilities along with succession planning.

Former NMIMS Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajan Saxena articulated the critical need for adaptability amid shifting academic and job market dynamics. He underscored continuous innovation as essential for institutions to maintain relevance. Dr. Rajesh Pankaj from FICCI spotlighted private HEIs' roles in skills enhancement, aligning with the program's focus on capacity building through industry-academia collaboration. The comprehensive modules incorporate key aspects such as technological integration and sustainability, promoting leadership ready to advance education's role in a transformative world.