ICT Academy organized its 52nd Edition of the BRIDGE conference themed 'Building Human Capital for a Trillion Dollar Digital Economy', on 30 September 2023 at Courtyard by Marriott, Madurai.
The mega industry-institute interaction event happened as the convergence of policymakers, industry leaders, and academicians with the aim to tap Tamil Nadu's vast human capital to achieve its target of a $1 trillion economy by 2030, sharing strategic perspectives and insights into the latest human capital development practices across the globe that helps to uncover what it takes to convert Tamil Nadu's human capital into economic success.
Mr. Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Hon'ble Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services, Government of Tamil Nadu, was the Chief Guest, for the conference.
Hari Thiagarajan, Managing Director, Thiagarajar Mills Pvt. Ltd. & Chairman and Correspondent, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Lakshmi Narayanan, Director, ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu & Emeritus Vice Chairman, Cognizant, Purushothaman K, Head, Government Affairs (states), Cognizant and Hari Balachandran, Chief Executive Officer, ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu were present at the inaugural.
Speaking at the conference, The Hon'ble Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services, Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan said “In today's interconnected world, with a clear vision set forth by our esteemed Chief Minister for a Trillion-dollar digital economy, The IT and DS Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu recognizes the imperative to surpass current productivity levels. To achieve this ambitious goal, we must seize opportunities arising from global economic shifts, evolving trade patterns, and the rapid advancements in technology. Reflecting on the transformative journey of the past few decades in education, particularly the commendable role played by ICT in schemes like Naan Mudhalvan. It is crucial to champion the integration of academia and industry, navigating the dynamic demands of the ever-evolving industrial landscape. Excitingly, the establishment of the ICT Academy office in Madurai is imminent, poised to become a hub for strategic implementation of their services. Anticipating an annual Bridge conference in Madurai, I am confident in the positive impact this collaboration will have on shaping a progressive future for our region.”
The Hon'ble Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services, Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan has also presented the ICT Academy Enterprising Edupreneur Awards to the academic leaders for creating a benchmark in the field of higher education through their innovative and ambitious efforts. The ICT Academy member colleges and their coordinators who have been actively implementing ICT Academy’s services with good outcomes were recognized.
Conference Focus Areas
- Human capital at the centre of TN's economic development strategy
- Aligning institutions to emerging technologies
- Future skills and talent development
- Ensuring sustainable business growth and job creation
- Best practices in the teaching-learning process