Education must evolve beyond degrees and exam-centric models: Experts at Development Dialogue

Speakers at the education session of the Development Dialogue 2026 held in Hubballi explored how education must evolve beyond degrees and exam-centric models to equip students with skills, adaptability, curiosity and real-world preparedness in an era shaped by rapid technological change and artificial intelligence.

Participating in the panel discussion on ‘Catalyzing Collective Impact: Leadership, Governance and Policy Enablers for Future-Ready Education’ on the second day of Development Dialogue in Hubballi on February 7, EV Ramana Reddy, Chairman, Karnataka Skill Development Authority (KDSA), pointed out that a major challenge is the lack of skill development, especially among students in rural areas.

He emphasized that Artificial Intelligence will play an important role in the future, but its true potential can only be realized if students are equipped to use it effectively. “Governments are actively shifting from rigid, degree-centric systems to flexible, competency-based frameworks, but scale and applications remain critical challenges,” he said.

Sri Rajan, advisory board member of The Convergence Foundation, noted that adaptability is the key to success in the workforce. He emphasized the importance of expanding apprenticeship programs to align supply and demand in the job market. “Many students fall behind because they miss opportunities. Personalized and adaptive learning tools can help students learn at their own pace and improve their skills,” he said.

Gururaj Desh Deshpande, co-founder of Deshpande Foundation, spoke about the irony of the current situation where students are struggling to find jobs due to lack of skills while industries are unable to find the talent they need. He emphasized the need to build strong bridges between education systems and industry needs to solve the problem.

He emphasized that universities can play a transformative role in driving social change if they take the initiative and encourage students to lead this change. He urged teachers to nurture curiosity, encourage questioning of assumptions, and encourage trust among students.

The panel was moderated by Educational Technology Consultant and former director of IIM Bangalore, Prof. Performed by Sushil Vachani.