Vibha Kagzi, Founder & Chief Education Officer of ReachIvy.com, is a trailblazer in the field of education and career guidance. With a strong commitment to empowering students and professionals, she has been instrumental in shaping global education trends and bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands. In this exclusive interview, she shares her insights on the evolving education landscape, the impact of emerging technologies, and the future of entrepreneurship—especially for women in India. From interdisciplinary studies to AI integration and the gig economy, Vibha Kagzi discusses how education must adapt to prepare individuals for an ever-changing workforce.
Q. What are the top trends in education that you believe will have the biggest impact on the workforce of tomorrow?
The biggest trends are focused on skill-based learning, interdisciplinary studies, and technology integration. We are seeing a shift toward experiential learning through internships and industry projects. Emerging areas like AI, data science, and sustainability are becoming core components of curricula, ensuring students are ready for jobs that don’t even exist yet. Lifelong learning is another critical trend, enabling professionals to continually upskill in a fast-changing workforce.
Q. How is the growing focus on interdisciplinary studies in universities preparing students for the complexity of tomorrow’s job market?
Interdisciplinary studies equip students with diverse skill sets by fostering the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives. By integrating fields like engineering with business or technology with psychology, students develop critical thinking, adaptability, and collaboration skills—key traits for a dynamic job market.
The University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge offer MBBS programmes that integrate biomedical science, ethics, and public health, preparing students for collaborative roles across healthcare sectors. Similarly, Imperial College London combines medical training with engineering, technology, and global health, equipping students to tackle global health challenges and innovate in healthcare.
Q. With the rise of automation and AI, how should educational institutions adapt their curricula to ensure students are prepared for future workforce demands?
Educational institutions should integrate AI, machine learning, and robotics into their programmes across disciplines. For example, in the field of finance, universities could incorporate AI-driven tools that assist in data analysis, risk assessment, and fraud detection, helping students understand how automation is transforming the industry. Similarly, in healthcare, AI applications such as predictive analytics for patient care and robotic surgery can be part of interdisciplinary curricula, merging technology with medical expertise. Beyond technical skills, they must emphasise creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving to complement what machines cannot do. Teaching students to view machines as collaborators and use AI as a tool, rather than seeing it as a threat, will be key to preparing them for the future.
Q. The gig economy is growing rapidly. How can educational systems equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in this increasingly flexible work environment?
To succeed in the gig economy, students need entrepreneurial skills like self-marketing, financial planning, and time management. Institutions should also promote digital literacy, as gig workers often rely on online platforms. Courses in freelancing, networking, and adaptability should be introduced to prepare students for this flexible work style.
Q. How do you see the role of traditional educational institutions evolving in response to the rise of online education and non-traditional learning platforms?
Traditional institutions must embrace hybrid models, combining their strengths—like mentorship and networking—with the flexibility of online learning. For example, Stanford University offers hybrid programmes that allow students to engage in online learning while benefiting from on-campus mentorship and networking opportunities. They also offer modular courses and certifications through Stanford Online, catering to lifelong learners. Similarly, Duke University’s “Duke Kunshan University” in China blends face-to-face learning with online modules, enabling students to tailor their education according to their needs. Collaboration with edtech platforms like Coursera, as seen at universities like Lehigh University, helps institutions stay relevant in this rapidly evolving landscape. These initiatives offer modular courses, certifications, and micro-degrees to learners of all ages, ensuring they stay competitive in the job market.
Q. Given your extensive experience in higher education and career counselling, how do you think the future of work will redefine what skills are most valuable?
The future of work will prioritise adaptability, emotional intelligence, and collaboration. While technical skills are critical, human-centric abilities like empathy, leadership, and communication will set individuals apart. Multidisciplinary thinking and the ability to continuously learn and unlearn will also be indispensable.
Q. What advice would you give to students who are uncertain about choosing a field of study, considering the constantly changing nature of industries and jobs?
Focus on exploring your interests and strengths. Look for fields that align with your passions but also consider areas that offer flexibility and growth. It’s okay to start broad and specialize later as you gain clarity. In addition, cultivating interdisciplinary skills can be incredibly valuable. By combining knowledge from different fields, you can approach problems with a broader perspective and adapt more easily to changes. Remember, transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work across disciplines will always be valuable, no matter the industry.
Q. How can educational institutions better incorporate soft skills like emotional intelligence and communication into their curriculum?
Institutions can integrate soft skills training through workshops, group projects, and real-world simulations. Role-playing activities and peer interactions can enhance emotional intelligence. Encouraging debates, presentations, and collaborative tasks will also improve communication skills. Soft skills should be treated as essential, not optional.
Q. How has the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India changed for women in the past decade, and what improvements still need to be made?
The last decade has seen significant progress, with more women accessing funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Government initiatives like Stand-Up India have played a role in this, but challenges remain. According to NDTV, only 1.6% of Fortune India 500 companies have women at the helm, highlighting the scarcity of female leadership in top positions. In the NIFTY 500 companies, only 4% of executive directors are women, underscoring the limited representation in executive roles. While the share of women directors on corporate boards has more than tripled due to government mandates, women in top management roles have only seen a modest increase from 13.8% in FY2014 to 21.8% in FY2023. This points to the persistence of gender bias, lack of representation, and societal expectations. To continue progress, we need more role models, inclusive policies, and better access to capital for women entrepreneurs.
Q. How do you see the entrepreneurial ecosystem evolving to better support women entrepreneurs in the future, particularly with the rise of digital and tech-driven industries?
The rise of tech-driven industries is unlocking new opportunities for women to scale their businesses globally. Platforms like e-commerce and digital marketing help women overcome barriers such as limited resources or local market constraints. Women-owned businesses in India now account for 20% of all enterprises, supported by initiatives like SHEEO and the Women Entrepreneurship Platform. However, structural barriers, such as lack of affordable childcare, persist, with women spending 2.6 times more on unpaid work than men, according to McKinsey. Combining technological innovation with policies like childcare subsidies and flexible work arrangements is essential to empower more women as business leaders.
Q. What role do you think emerging technologies like AI and blockchain will play in shaping the future of businesses in India?
Emerging technologies will enable women entrepreneurs to innovate, automate repetitive tasks, and optimise their operations. Blockchain can provide transparency in business transactions, while AI-driven tools can enhance decision-making and customer engagement. These technologies will empower women to compete on a global scale.
Q. How do you envision the future of work and entrepreneurship intersecting, especially in terms of flexibility, innovation, and leadership opportunities for women?
The future of work will be defined by flexibility, enabling women to balance personal and professional commitments more easily. Remote work and digital platforms are already empowering women entrepreneurs to lead innovative ventures from anywhere, overcoming traditional barriers like office constraints and caregiving responsibilities. As organisations focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), leadership opportunities for women will increase. Research shows that companies with more women in leadership roles see better profitability, driving greater support for women-led innovations. Additionally, digital tools and AI will offer women entrepreneurs easier access to resources, mentorship, and networks, levelling the playing field. With supportive policies like flexible hours and paid family leave, the future of work will foster greater female leadership, innovation, and economic growth.
Q. Looking ahead, how do you think women in leadership positions can drive future changes in India’s business landscape, and what will that look like in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope women leaders will play a transformative role by fostering inclusive workplaces and encouraging innovation. I believe they will bring unique perspectives to problem-solving, driving social and economic change. With increasing representation in policymaking and C-suite roles, the business landscape will reflect a more equitable and sustainable future.
