In a world increasingly shaped by rapid technological advancements, staying relevant and competitive is a pursuit that demands constant learning and adaptation. Recently, at the GLA University Leadership Summit, Mr. Shankar Kambam, CEO of Meridian Solutions, delivered an insightful keynote address on the critical importance of up-skilling and re-skilling in today’s AI-driven world.
With over 25 years in the technology industry, Mr. Shankar brought a wealth of experience and a passion for the subject that resonated deeply with students, faculty, and professionals in attendance.
The AI-Driven Era: An Unstoppable Transformation
The core message of Mr. Shankar’s address keynote was the urgent need for individuals to up-skill and re-skill to thrive in the fast-paced, technology-enabled era. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), today’s workforce faces unprecedented shifts in how we work, interact, and create. “AI is not just a tool,” Mr. Shankar emphasized, “it is reshaping industries and redefining the skillsets that will drive success in the future.”
From well-known AI-powered tools like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft’s Co-pilot to specialized solutions such as IBM Watson, Jasper.ai, and DALL-E3, AI has already found its way into countless aspects of daily life. Many of us interact with AI without realizing it, from recommendations on streaming services like Netflix to navigation aids on Google Maps. These technologies have become so seamlessly integrated into our routines that it’s easy to overlook the profound impact they have on our lives.
AI in Industry: Changing How We Work
The influence of AI is evident across numerous industries. In India alone, agriculture benefits from AI-powered tools that optimize water usage, advise on crop choices, and diagnose plant diseases through visual analysis. In healthcare, AI is driving diagnostic innovations based on facial analysis and retina scans. Education is also evolving, with personalized learning experiences powered by AI enabling customized, adaptive learning environments that meet the unique needs of each student.
Meridian Solutions is no stranger to these advancements. Mr. Shankar shared how his company has been working tirelessly on AI-driven solutions, rapidly expanding a dedicated team of nearly 30 professionals focused on deploying AI across industries including education, healthcare, manufacturing, and real estate. “The world of work is undergoing a profound transformation,” he noted, “and at Meridian, we’re committed to being at the forefront of this change.” This journey reflects Meridian’s shift over the last 15 years from telecommunications and cybersecurity to AI applications, embodying the essence of up-skilling and re-skilling as a company-wide commitment.
Up-Skilling and Re-Skilling: Essential Tools for Career Growth
In the competitive job market of today, continuous learning is essential. According to Mr. Shankar, up-skilling involves acquiring new skills to expand current competencies, while re-skilling may require learning entirely new skills to meet shifting demands. For students especially, the importance of embracing these concepts cannot be overstated, as AI knowledge opens doors to exciting careers in technology, data science, and beyond.
Mr. Shankar outlined several strategies to help students build an adaptive, growth-focused mindset. He encouraged them to:
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Developing the habit of continually seeking out new knowledge and skills, whether through formal education, online courses, or self-study, is crucial for long-term success.
- Leverage University Resources: GLA University offers a wealth of resources, from career counseling and optional courses to workshops and labs, that provide students with valuable learning opportunities.
- Identify Necessary Skills: Students should have a clear idea of the career path they aim to pursue and understand which skills are critical to achieving their goals, with a particular emphasis on exploring AI’s influence on various fields.
- Network with Industry Professionals: Building relationships with established professionals provides invaluable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities. Mr. Shankar encouraged students to actively engage with leaders in their chosen areas through platforms like LinkedIn.
- Embrace Technology: As a powerful enabler, technology plays an essential role in learning and professional success.
Building Future Leaders Through Adaptability
Mr. Shankar emphasized that up-skilling and re-skilling are not just career strategies but necessities for a meaningful life. Continuous learning is a path to self-confidence, broader horizons, and personal fulfillment. In a world driven by constant innovation, staying ahead requires a proactive approach to education and skill-building.
Moreover, Mr. Shankar highlighted that adaptability and resilience in the face of technological change are what differentiate future leaders. Possessing a strong foundation in AI will provide students with a significant advantage in the job market and foster a generation of thinkers capable of steering society towards positive change.
Meridian Solutions’ Journey: A Case Study in Up-Skilling and Re-Skilling
Drawing parallels between his message and Meridian Solutions’ journey, Mr. Shankar explained how Meridian has continually evolved to stay ahead of the curve. Originally focused on telecom and cybersecurity, the company has now embraced AI and cloud technologies, adapting to meet the demands of a dynamic industry landscape.
For both individuals and companies, up-skilling and re-skilling are not merely buzzwords; they are essential strategies for staying relevant and competitive.
A Final Word of Encouragement
In closing, Mr. Shankar encouraged the students to seize the opportunities available to them at GLA University and beyond. “In today’s rapidly changing world, up-skilling and re-skilling are not just options; they are necessities,” he asserted. “By investing in your professional development, you can secure a brighter future and contribute meaningfully to society.”
With Diwali around the corner, Mr. Shankar concluded with a festive message: “May the diyas of Diwali light up the pathways of your success.” His words left the audience with a sense of optimism, motivation, and a commitment to continuous learning in this transformative era.
As AI continues to reshape the professional landscape, Mr. Shankar’s insights remind us that with the right skills and mindset, the leaders of tomorrow can navigate and shape the future with confidence.
