Evolving job market suits candidates with Arts, Science and Commerce background, say experts in Coimbatore

The Hindu

08-05-2025

A wide spectrum of career possibilities across the realms of arts, science and commerce, against the backdrop of technological disruptions, was the topic of discussion among experts at the second and final day of The Hindu Education Plus Career Counselling Fair 2025 in Coimbatore on Thursday.
Durgesh Kumar Kabra, Chairman of the Committee for Financial Market and Investor Protection, emphasised that Chartered Accountancy goes beyond just auditing and accounting; it also encompasses business consultancy and entrepreneurship. He noted that the profession is adapting to technology in alignment with the evolving times.
A panel discussion on 'Design your Destiny: Unconventional, High-Growth Career in Arts, Science and Commerce' moderated by R. Saravana Kumar, Former Chairman, Computer Society of India and former Director, Cognizant Technology, witnessed experts delving deep into career openings in the areas of law, finance, basic sciences, design, accounting, commerce, and a plethora of related areas.
The panelists consisted of B.L. Shivakumar, Principal and Secretary, Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore; Philip Thomas, Country Head - World Design Council; P. Kanagaraj, free Civil Services Coach and Head, Department of Political Science, Government Arts College, Coimbatore; Ambika Seetharaman of Help the Blind Foundation; Survajith S. Krishnan, Chartered Accountant and Vice-Chairman, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India - Coimbatore; and N.V. Sreejaya, practising advocate in India and Solicitor, England and Wales.
Prof. Shivakumar said that autonomous colleges are able to update their syllabi periodically depending on the needs of the industry. He also noted a pressing need in schools for teachers in subjects of basic sciences.
Mr. Survajith described CA as 'Career Assured,' especially when supplemented with skills to manage businesses using AI tools. 'Chartered accountants are in a stronger position to transform into entrepreneurs with their knowledge of funding dynamics,' he said, identifying Financial Data Analytics as an area of high potential.
Ambika Seetharaman emphasised the need to explore entrepreneurship opportunities in recycling and the reuse of waste products. We should look for opportunities within challenges. Mental health deserves attention, and we must encourage the involvement of visually impaired individuals in areas such as music and cooking, promoting inclusivity.
Prof. Kanagaraj encouraged young people to enter politics, suggesting it as a viable career. While Tamil Nadu's representation in the IAS and IPS remains strong, he said there was a need to improve presence in the Indian Foreign Service.
Ms. Sreejaya remarked that there were high-paying jobs in the areas of policy and governance. ' The standing of the legal profession has now risen, with national-level exams for entry into the academic programme,' she said, adding that lawyers with sharp analytical minds can chart careers outside courtrooms in the corporate sector, and in the arena of teaching.
Philip Thomas spoke of a promising future for the creative sector. 'New courses and State-level policies are being introduced to support the creative industries,' he said, noting the emergence of venture capital funding, particularly in gaming.
The event was presented by Sri Ramakrishna Educational Institutions, Coimbatore, and powered by Park Institutions.
Associate partners constituted Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Academy of Media Design, KIT - Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, PPG Group Institutions, Coimbatore, and United Institute of Technology.