Introduction:

The first National Conclave on Design Thinking for Academic Leaders in India saw an insightful Fireside Chat between Mr. Udaya Sankar, National Lead – Academia & Government Relations at Nasscom &  Co-Founder and Trustee of Maatram Foundation, and Dr. Anbu Rathinavel, Head, School of Design Thinking and Chief Design Officer, Intellect Design Arena Ltd. The discussion focused on leveraging Design Thinking for institutional growth, student success, and societal impact.

Beyond Buzzwords: Design Thinking in Action:

The discussion began with a personal anecdote highlighting the unexpected benefits of Design Thinking in addressing not only professional challenges but also personal and family issues. This set the stage for exploring the broader applications of Design Thinking beyond the corporate world.

Collaboration and Mindset Shifts:

A key theme throughout the conversation was the importance of collaboration and breaking down silos between students, faculty, industry, and society. The speakers emphasized the need for a shift in mindset, encouraging partnership and co-creation between these groups.

Empowering Students for the Future of Work:

The discussion then turned to the specific impact of Design Thinking on student success. It was highlighted that Design Thinking empowers students to see challenges as opportunities and equip them with the necessary problem-solving skills, to thrive in the rapidly changing world of work.

Transforming Faculty and Teaching Methods:

The conversation also addressed the crucial role of the Faculty in driving innovation within institutions. Faculty immersion workshops were presented as a key tool for helping educators embrace a more collaborative and student-centered approach, fostering creativity and innovation in the classroom.

Bridging the Gap and Reaching a Wider Audience:

One concern raised was the lack of awareness and understanding of Design Thinking concepts among the general public. The speakers acknowledged this challenge and emphasized the need for collaboration between academic institutions, industry, and government to make Design Thinking more accessible to a wider audience, including students at the school level.

A Collective Vision for a Brighter Future:

Both speakers expressed their optimism about the future of Design Thinking in India. They believed that by working together, stakeholders across different sectors can create a culture of innovation and problem-solving that will drive India’s growth and empower its citizens.

Conclusion:

The Fireside Chat provided valuable insights into the transformative potential of Design Thinking in the context of academic institutions and society at large. It highlighted the importance of collaboration, mindset shifts, and a focus on human-centered solutions. By embracing Design Thinking, India can unlock its potential for innovation and create a brighter future for all.