Building the Future Together: ICSDG 2025 Panel on Industry–Academia Synergy

As organisations and educational institutions navigate rapid technological shifts, the need for stronger, more purposeful collaboration between industry and academia has never been more urgent. Recognising this, the 4th International Conclave on Higher Education Institute Challenges & Solutions for Sustainable Development Goals (ICSDG 2025) brings forward a compelling panel discussion on “Future of Industry–Academia Collaboration.”

This engaging session is set to take place tomorrow, December 10, 2025, from 10:50 AM to 11:25 AM at the Prof. T. P. Ganesan Auditorium, Mini Hall 1, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Kattankulathur. Organised by the Centre for Research in Environment, Sustainability Advocacy and Climate Change (REACH) under the Directorate of Research at SRMIST, the panel is poised to deliver deep insights into how educational institutions and industries can co-create value for society.

Why Industry–Academia Collaboration Matters More Than Ever

In a world shaped by technological disruption, environmental pressures, and evolving workforce expectations, the traditional boundaries between industry and academia are becoming increasingly blurred. Modern challenges require multidisciplinary knowledge, real-world expertise, and the ability to innovate at speed, all of which thrive in a healthy industry–academia ecosystem.

The panel aims to unpack these themes by exploring:

• How industries and universities can jointly accelerate innovation

• The emerging models of collaboration that support sustainable development

• Strategies to ensure students and researchers are future-ready

• Ways to align research outputs with societal and environmental needs

This session will emphasise not only the opportunities but also the challenges and actionable solutions for institutions striving to make a meaningful impact.

Meet the Esteemed Panellists

The discussion brings together visionary leaders and experts who have been at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and industry transformation:

• Dr. Delaya Thampi – Director, The Living Hope AI
  A driving force in integrating artificial intelligence into healthcare and business, Dr. Thampi brings a unique perspective on how cutting-edge technology can bridge academic research and real-world applications.

• Dr. Poornima Shyam – Scientific Officer, BioNEST, SRMIST
  With deep expertise in biotechnology incubation, she offers insights on nurturing early-stage innovations and fostering collaborative research environments within academic institutions.

• Mr. Chandrasekaran Jayaraman – Founder Director, WATSAN Envirotech Pvt. Ltd.
  A sustainability-driven entrepreneur, his work in water and sanitation technologies exemplifies how industry-led solutions can benefit from academic partnerships.

• Ms. Abida Aneez – Vice President – CSR & Sustainability, Group Legrand India
  With vast experience in corporate social responsibility, she highlights the role of industries in shaping educational ecosystems that contribute to environmental and community welfare.

Moderator:
Dr. Ramya S., Associate Professor, Department of Language, Culture and Society, SRMIST, will guide the session with her expertise in fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and understanding societal needs.

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A Call to Innovators, Students, and Changemakers

This event is open to students, researchers, faculty, and industry professionals who are passionate about shaping the future of innovation. Whether you aim to build impactful research, foster partnerships, or drive sustainable solutions, this panel offers valuable perspectives to inspire your journey.

By attending, you will gain insights into:

• Emerging industry expectations

• Opportunities for collaborative research

• Pathways to translate academic ideas into impactful solutions

• Building future-ready skill sets and innovation cultures

Tomorrow’s discussion promises to be an inspiring exchange of ideas, shaping a future where industry and academia work hand in hand to create scalable solutions for economic growth, societal wellbeing, and sustainable development.

Join us as we chart the path forward—together.