Parin Somani, internationally-recognised academician, TEDx speaker, award-winning author, humanitarian and Chief Executive Officer of the London Organisation of Skills Development (LOSD), United Kingdom, has concluded an academic tour of Tamil Nadu, engaging students, educators, researchers and academic leaders on the future of education, artificial intelligence (AI), innovation and skills development.
The tour featured keynote speeches, guest lectures and seminars at leading educational institutions across the state, providing platforms for discussions on the changing nature of higher education and the skills required to prepare students for an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy.
Drawing on her international experience in education, research and leadership, Somani addressed issues ranging from innovative teaching and learning approaches to research excellence, entrepreneurship and the growing influence of AI on higher education and the workplace.
One of the major engagements was a guest lecture at Sri Sankara Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Kanchipuram, where she spoke on “Transforming Higher Education: Global Perspectives on Teaching, Learning and Research.” The session examined emerging developments in global education, innovative teaching methodologies and the need for institutions to equip students with competencies that extend beyond conventional academic knowledge.
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At St. Joseph College of Engineering, Sriperumbudur, Chennai, Somani delivered a seminar organised by the Department of MBA in association with Train the Trainer’s Academy. Her presentation, “Gen Z and the Future of Work: Navigating AI, Innovation and Corporate Transformation,” focused on the changing employment landscape and the implications of technological advancement for young professionals.
She urged students to embrace adaptability, innovation and continuous learning while developing skills that can remain relevant as workplaces undergo rapid technological transformation.
A recurring theme throughout the tour was the need to maintain a balance between technological advancement and human capabilities. While AI is reshaping industries, businesses and educational systems, Somani stressed that communication, creativity, emotional intelligence, leadership and ethical decision-making would remain critical to professional and social development.
She encouraged students to view themselves as lifelong learners and to develop the ability to adapt to emerging technologies rather than simply compete with them.
As CEO of LOSD, Somani also highlighted the organisation’s efforts to connect academic learning with industry requirements through international education initiatives, leadership development, research opportunities and skills enhancement programmes. She said stronger links between education and the world of work would be essential in preparing young people for changing economic and technological realities.
An important part of the tour was Somani’s invitation to Raj Bhavan, Chennai, the official residence of the Governor of Tamil Nadu, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. During the visit, discussions focused on higher education, skills development, research, innovation and the integration of artificial intelligence into academic institutions.
The discussions also considered opportunities to strengthen educational ecosystems, promote research collaboration, improve digital literacy and equip students with skills relevant to the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Somani brought international perspectives to the discussions, highlighting the importance of collaboration among government, universities, industry and international organisations in strengthening education and research outcomes. The engagement also underscored the importance of creating inclusive learning environments capable of preparing students for opportunities beyond their immediate communities and national borders.
Students and faculty members who participated in the various engagements commended Somani for her practical perspectives and emphasis on innovation and lifelong learning. Her interactions encouraged participants to consider emerging career pathways and the role of education in driving wider social and economic development.
Reflecting on the tour, Somani praised Tamil Nadu’s commitment to education, innovation and student empowerment. She expressed confidence that continued investment in research, technology and skills development would further strengthen the state’s position as an important centre for higher education and innovation.
The tour also created opportunities for further collaboration in research, innovation, faculty development and student engagement, while reinforcing the need for education systems to evolve alongside technological and economic changes.
For Somani, the engagements underscored a central message: preparing students for the AI era requires more than technological knowledge. It requires an education system that combines digital competence with creativity, leadership, critical thinking, ethical awareness and the ability to learn continuously.
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