New Delhi, Bharat Mandapam: Experts from India’s education and EdTech sector highlighted at the National Education, Employability & EdTech Summit 2026 that in a rapidly changing global scenario, schools must go beyond imparting mere academic knowledge and focus on equipping students with skills, adaptability and real-world readiness for the future.
The event was inaugurated by Sachin Marya, Editorial Director, Entrepreneur APAC, who emphasized that the worlds of education, employment and EdTech are evolving rapidly. He added that education systems must become more flexible, innovation-driven and aligned with industry requirements to meet future challenges.
The Future of Education: Preparing Future-Ready Learners
The discussion featured insights from leading education experts including Harish Sanduja (Director of Schools and IT of Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group), Dominic Tomalin (Founding Headmaster- Shrewsbury International School, India), Devika Nadig (Co-founder & Director- Shikshangan) & Amol Arora (Director, Shemrock Group of Schools- Moderator).
A key session titled “The Future of Education: Preparing Learners for an Unpredictable World” focused on the necessary reforms in the education system and the development of new skill sets. During the session, experts discussed the changing landscape of education, emerging opportunities and the challenges that schools and educational institutions are currently facing.
The session highlighted that today’s education cannot remain limited to textbooks alone. Students must be taught skills that prepare them to face real-world challenges effectively.
Schools as a ‘Launchpad’
Experts emphasized that in the coming years, schools must act not just as knowledge providers but as launchpads for students’ careers and personal development. They stressed that the education system should be designed in a way that fosters employability skills, adaptability and practical understanding among students.
Importance of Skills and Adaptability
Speakers noted that the world is changing rapidly and the emergence of new technologies is constantly altering the nature of work. In this context, merely providing theoretical knowledge is no longer sufficient.
Experts stressed that students must develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and digital literacy, which are essential skills for navigating the uncertainties of the future. These skills will enable students to succeed in dynamic and unpredictable environments.
Collaboration Between Industry and Education
The discussion also highlighted the need for strong collaboration between educational institutions and the industry. Such partnerships can provide students with practical exposure and opportunities to develop career-relevant skills while still in school. Experts agreed that if schools and industry work together, students will gain better career prospects and the nation’s economy will also benefit from a more skilled workforce.
Challenges in the Changing Education Landscape
Speakers acknowledged that the education sector is facing several new challenges, including rapid technological advancements, evolving job markets and increasing global competition. These factors place additional responsibilities on schools, educators and policymakers.
In response, educators and institutions must develop a system that prepares students not just for examinations but for real-life challenges.
The key takeaway from the discussion was that students must be equipped with skills, creativity and adaptability to succeed in the future world. Experts emphasized that if schools make education more practical, skill-oriented and technology-enabled, they can prepare students effectively for an uncertain but opportunity-filled future.