With nearly half of Indian graduates lacking the skills employers seek, the gap between academic learning and employability is wider than ever. In this exclusive conversation, Ashish Munjal, CEO and Co-Founder of Sunstone, Gurugram shares with Triparna Ray how industry-aligned education is redefining student success. From real-world training to AI-powered career tools, he explains why experiential learning, corporate partnerships, and agile curricula are critical to preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.
How does industry-aligned education bridge the gap between academic learning and employability?
Today, nearly 46.2% of Indian graduates are considered unemployable due to lack of industry-relevant skills (India Skills Report 2024). Industry-aligned education bridges the academic-employability gap by shifting the focus from rote learning to real-world readiness. Institutions that embed industry inputs into their curriculum—such as project-based assessments, tech-driven modules, and certifications in AI, data science, and digital marketing—significantly improve student outcomes. In fact, programs offering hands-on learning and mock interview training have shown a 30–40% improvement in placement rates. One model proving effective includes AI-powered career tools like resume scoring and aptitude diagnostics, which personalize student journeys and improve job alignment.
What role does hands-on training play in enhancing job readiness for students today?
In today’s skills-first hiring landscape, hands-on training is no longer optional—it’s essential. Internships, live projects, simulations, and industry-driven workshops provide students with real-time exposure to problem-solving, team collaboration, and decision-making—skills that can’t be taught in textbooks. In a market where employers prioritize skills over degrees, experiential learning bridges the gap between academic theory and workplace reality. According to recent industry insights by Nasscom, students with practical training are 60% more likely to receive job offers during campus placements. The future belongs to those who learn by doing, not just knowing.
How are companies benefiting from graduates with industry-integrated learning experiences?
Companies today are prioritizing graduates who come equipped with real-world skills, not just theoretical knowledge. Graduates trained in such ecosystems show up to 40% faster productivity in their first six months, reducing training costs and improving retention. With 80% of hiring managers rating problem-solving and communication as top traits, companies gain a significant edge by hiring talent exposed to industry challenges before graduation. This shift results in better cultural alignment, higher adaptability, and lower attrition.
What challenges exist in aligning higher education curricula with evolving industry demands?
One of the biggest challenges in aligning higher education with industry needs is the rigid academic frameworks that can’t keep pace with evolving skills. According to the World Economic Forum, 44% of job skills will shift by 2027, yet many institutions still follow outdated curricula. Moreover, only 4.6% of Indian applicants are employable in tech roles due to poor alignment with in-demand digital skills (SHL). While industry demands hands-on, interdisciplinary expertise, universities often lack the agility, industry partnerships, and tech-driven infrastructure needed to make that shift, creating a persistent gap between learning and employability.
How is industry collaboration shaping the future of skill-based learning for students?
Industry is no longer just a recruiter—it’s a co-educator. Through strategic partnerships, institutions are co-creating:
- Applied learning modules
- Real-world problem-solving projects
- Mentorship programs with domain experts
Tools like AI-based aptitude diagnostics and resume simulators developed with corporate input help students align with job market expectations.
For example, partnerships with mid-sized enterprises and startups are exposing students to agile environments and new-age technologies. These synergies not only bridge the skills gap but also drive adaptability—ensuring students are trained for roles that don’t even exist yet.
What impact does experiential learning have on student placements and career growth?
Experiential learning significantly influences student placement outcomes and long-term career growth. According to a 2023 report by India Hiring Tracker (Indeed & Forrester), 64% of recruiters prefer candidates with practical experience over those with higher academic scores. Institutions that embed live projects, industry internships, and case-based learning see a significant boost in placement metrics. For instance, students who complete two or more internships are 60% more likely to secure full-time employment post-graduation. Platforms that use AI to simulate mock interviews or assess communication and analytical skills provide students with continuous, personalized feedback—accelerating their growth. Beyond first jobs, experiential learning cultivates adaptability and critical thinking, equipping students to navigate evolving roles and leadership paths in a dynamic workforce.
The future of education lies in a powerful collaboration between academia and industry. When students learn by doing—not just by knowing—they emerge not just employable, but future-ready.
