Latest news with #SiddharthBalachandran
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: How schools must help students 'unlearn' old teaching systems, become future-ready
UAE-based students are gaining access to world-class education, with premium Indian educational institutes setting up in the UAE. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India to Dubai, highlighted the recent opening of Indian institutes like IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi campus and plans to start other Indian universities like Indian Institutes of Management and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade in Dubai. 'They are getting access to quality Indian technological education,' he said. 'This opens opportunities and avenues to not just the Indian diaspora but Emirati as well as global students who can take advantage of these educational institutes.' He was speaking at the Future of Learning: Innovation, Technology & Entrepreneurship event held on Tuesday, which focuses on strengthening the bilateral relationship between UAE and India. Hosted by global startup ecosystem Talrop, in partnership with Khaleej Times, the event brought together key policymakers, educators, startup leaders, and investors to discuss a future-ready ecosystem that bridges creativity, learning, talent, and entrepreneurship. A top entrepreneur pointed out that in modern times, teaching a student to fish isn't enough. Instead, they must learn to own the ocean. Siddharth Balachandran, Executive Chairman of Buimerc Corporation, explained how important it was to evolve traditional education models into future-proof systems that prepare students to not just survive, but to lead. 'You teach the man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime, is the old concept,' he said. 'The new concept, is that the fisherman goes on to understand the depth of the ocean and finds out where the fish are spawned. He also finds out that on the shore, you can actually build a factory; he markets to the entire world, trains the men on the shore and finally he creates a company, lists it on the stock exchange and becomes a trillionaire overnight.' He also said that every education system should have an incubation system. 'This system would help students to get a simulation, and a reasonable understanding of the real world,' he explained. 'Because I think that the gap is not in skills; it is in the understanding of what is to come. So the incubation centre actually propagates idea formulation and helps the student in setting up firms.' During the event, spokespersons for Talrop highlighted how their work has been empowering students across their home base in India where the company has been building ecosystems to scale. Evolving education systems Sivan also explained how India is constantly evolving its education system to meet the needs of the future. He explained that the country is investing 5 per cent of its GDP in education and its focus was to have a 'population that is skilled, adept and educated' to meet the challenges of the future. 'India's new education policy moves away from memorisation, which has been a challenge for education systems around the world, to testing the understanding of students,' he said. He explained how India's new education policy is focusing on three pillars – emphasising on play by learning at the pre-school level, supporting holistic learning by offering flexibility of subject choices to students, and focusing on skilling learners with vocational education. He also highlighted how the partnership between India and UAE has been growing in the recent past. Urgent conversation Ted Kemp, Chief Content Officer at Khaleej Times, termed the event as a conversation 'that could not be more urgent'. He highlighted how the world was developing at a break-neck speed. 'A child born today will enter the labor force around 2045,' he explained. 'Yet, many of the systems we have in place to prepare them for the world that will challenge them are rooted in methods and models designed over a century ago.' He said it was important to have global collaboration with local impact. 'The real bridge that we need to build is between imagination and implementation,' he said. 'We are no longer asking what we want our students to learn. We are asking how we can help them to adapt, unlearn, and imagine the world that they will inherit.'
Khaleej Times
10-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: New non-profit hospital announced for workers after Sheikh Hamdan's India visit
A not-for-profit hospital and a virtual UAE-India trade corridor are among the key initiatives announced following Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan's first official visit to India. The UAE-India Friendship Hospital (UIFH), which is dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible healthcare to blue-collar workers, will be established in Dubai. The hospital will be established collectively by Dubai Health and a group of five Indian entrepreneurs, who will act as the founding trustees of the hospital. An agreement was signed by these businessmen and Dr Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, at a special event organised by Dubai Chambers in Mumbai. The founding trustees of the UIFH include Faizal Kottikollon, Chairman of KEF Holdings, Nilesh Ved, Chairman of Apparel Group, Siddharth Balachandran, Executive Chairman of Buimerc Corporation, Tariq Chauhan, Vice Chairman of EFS Facilities and Ramesh S Ramakrishnan, Chairman of Transworld Group. The entrepreneurs are all members of the UAE India Business Council - UAE Chapter (UIBC UC). Siddharth Balachandran described Sheikh Hamdan's visit as 'monumental' for the ties between both countries. 'This is truly a monumental visit in terms of strategic impact for both the nations,' he told Khaleej Times. 'The announcement of extremely relevant collaborative projects in the fields of healthcare, education and holistic philanthropy is truly the icing on the cake. I am particularly enthused about the UIFH, which will specifically cater to the blue-collar worker community, and I am also happy that I am one of the founding trustees of this noble project.' On Tuesday, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, arrived in India at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a two-day visit that saw the bonds between both countries strengthen. Sheikh Hamdan and India's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, witnessed the signing of eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening collaboration across key sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, higher education, maritime services, logistics, and private sector engagement. The MoUs were inked during a special event organised by Dubai Chambers in Mumbai. DP World signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RITES, a leading infrastructure, consultancy, and engineering firm under India's Ministry of Railways. Signed by His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, and Rahul Mithal, Chairman and Managing Director of RITES, the agreement aims to harness the expertise of both organisations to develop resilient, tech-enabled supply chains and strengthen modern logistics and maritime capabilities, aligned with the long-term economic visions of both nations.
Gulf Today
08-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Hamdan's visit to India reflects depth of exceptional relations: IBPC
Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC Dubai), said that the visit of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, to India is a true embodiment of the exceptional relations between the two nations. "It reflects the leadership's shared commitment to continuously enhancing bilateral relations in pursuit of a future vision rooted in integration and openness," he added. In statements to the Emirates News Agency, Balachandran noted that the historical and close ties between the UAE and India have seen remarkable progress, setting a global example of constructive cooperation. This advancement not only serves the interests of both nations but also generates broader positive impacts for the region and the world at large. He indicated that the shared values between the two friendly countries form a solid foundation for sustained engagement, values that have been significantly strengthened over the past two decades. "This mutual understanding is reflected in the deep respect between Emirati citizens and the Indian expatriate community. The result is a unique synergy, combining the hospitality of the host nation with the commitment and diligence of the Indian community, creating a dynamic and productive economic ecosystem,' he noted. Balachandran also highlighted that strengthening bilateral ties has laid the groundwork for deeper levels of future partnership. He pointed to landmark initiatives such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and government-led forums like I2U2 as examples of the joint ambition to elevate cooperation to new heights. WAM
Arabian Business
02-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Former Indian president Kovind to be chief guest at IBPC Dubai conclave
The Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC Dubai) announced former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind as the chief guest for its 22nd Anniversary Conclave in Dubai. The conclave, slated to be held on April 25, will focus on strengthening India-UAE bilateral relations, exploring opportunities for Indian businesses and professionals in the UAE, and aligning India's development goals with the UAE Vision 2030. The event will also serve as a platform for discussions on policy advocacy, advancements in the digital economy, and enhancing collaboration between the entrepreneurs of the two nations, IBPC said. Former India PM Ram Nath Kovind to visit Dubai The upcoming event will focus on several key areas aligned with the theme of 'Viksit Bharat', aimed at fostering India's growth and strengthening its global ties. Key topics will include the digital economy, which will explore strategies to enhance transparency and efficiency in digital trade, especially the digital clearance of transactions. Additionally, discussions will also focus on cross-border transactions in local currency, which can drive efficiency in trade between the two nations and create a more seamless business environment, it said. Several significant initiatives and partnerships are also expected to be announced at the anniversary conclave, IBPC Dubai said. These include the launch of the 'Viksit Bharat' series, which aims to promote sectoral investments in India, with planned delegations focusing on key states like: Uttar Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Kerala Assam Gujarat Goa The initiatives aim to attract global investors, particularly in the tourism and sustainable development sectors, fuelling growth and innovation across India's diverse regions. 'As we mark our 22nd anniversary, this conclave will be a testament to our continued commitment to fostering stronger ties between India and the UAE,' said Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of IBPC Dubai.
Zawya
18-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
IBPC Dubai unveils affiliate tier to empower women and youth entrepreneurs
Accelerating Growth and Opportunity for the UAE's Indian Business Community Focused on Networking, Advocacy, Mentorship, and Visibility for Women and Youth Entrepreneurs Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A recent Mastercard study found that entrepreneurship is nearly equally embraced by both genders in the UAE, with 49 percent of women and 47 percent of men surveyed identifying as entrepreneurs, highlighting the country's dynamic business environment. Taking these pertinent statistics into account, the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC Dubai) has introduced a groundbreaking new membership category designed to empower women and young professionals. This newly launched Affiliate Tier, priced at just AED 500, aims to provide a powerful platform for women of all ages and individuals under the age of 45, offering them essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to thrive in the UAE's dynamic business environment. The new membership category is part of IBPC's ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive business community, focusing on diversifying leadership across sectors. By offering affordable membership, IBPC aims to elevate emerging voices in business, helping youth and women entrepreneurs gain access to invaluable opportunities for growth. As businesses led by women and youth continue to drive innovation and economic expansion in the UAE, the Affiliate Tier stands as a critical tool for supporting this wave of transformation. 'The Affiliate Tier is a significant step in creating a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape. It represents IBPC's commitment to ensuring that all entrepreneurs—especially women and youth—have the support, tools, and networks needed to excel,' said Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of IBPC. 'We are excited to see how this initiative will empower the next generation of leaders and contribute to the continued growth and success of our community. Women and youth bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and resilience that will drive innovation and inspire lasting change within the IBPC cadre. Additionally, with the removal of size-based distinctions for corporate members in favour of a benefits-based approach, we are ensuring greater flexibility and value for our members. Existing memberships will automatically be mapped to new tiers for a seamless transition, minimizing financial impact while keeping membership fees competitive. Our commitment to good governance remains steadfast, and we will continue to deliver sustained value through meaningful connections, opportunities, and insights.' In addition to this new, affordable membership offering, IBPC has also introduced a more streamlined and inclusive approach to its broader membership categories. These tiers have been thoughtfully designed to meet the varied needs of professionals at different stages of their business journeys, ensuring they have the right resources, networks, and opportunities to thrive. The Silver membership provides essential benefits such as voting rights, access to events, and focus group membership. The Gold membership offers additional advantages, including exclusive event access, company spotlight features, and membership in advocacy platforms. For those looking for even more tailored support, the Platinum membership includes dedicated event curation, speaker opportunities, and personalized advocacy interventions. At the pinnacle of this membership structure is the Diamond tier, an exclusive, lifetime membership that offers mentorships, access to premium business opportunities, and the ability to leverage IBPC's extensive network in the UAE. This tier ensures that members receive unmatched support and visibility in the region's competitive business landscape. 'Together, these initiatives reflect IBPC's unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic business community in the UAE. By empowering women, youth, and professionals from all backgrounds, IBPC continues to drive the growth and success of its members, creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders to shine,' added the Chairman. This membership restructuring announcement was made at a special Women's Day event, where Vice Chairman of the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, Mrs. Bubbles Kaur Khandari, was felicitated. Panellists included Dr. Nahla Abdul Razzaq Kazim, founder and CEO of Kazim's Fertility Barza, educator and entrepreneur Ms. Chetna Buxani Shastri, CEO of E-movers Siddhi Joshi, with the moderator being CEO of Evolvitude, Ms. Neetu Chandra. The event was MC'd by branding and strategic communications consultant Stuti Sinha, with the opening address given by Member Ms. Jaya Mahalingam, Director at Ideal Capital Management Consultants, Dubai and the vote of thanks presented by Ms. Gomathi Seetharaman, health and wellness champion & Founder, Arogya Yatra. Haya Mashhood, philanthropy consultant, unveiled the new membership categories sharing pertinent details.
