CUK holds conference on trends in Commerce education

Ganderbal, Nov 27: The two-day national conference on “Emerging Issues and Trends in Commerce Education,” organised by the Department of Commerce, School of Business Studies, Central University of Kashmir (CUK), commenced today at the varsity’s Tulmulla Campus.

Inaugurating the conference, Vice-Chancellor Prof A Ravinder Nath emphasised the pivotal role of commerce education in driving economic growth, business development, and trade. “Commerce education is evolving rapidly to align with the changing global landscape. In a world characterised by dynamic markets, digital transformation, and interconnected economies, the scope and delivery of commerce education must adapt to meet the demands of the 21st century,” he said.

Prof Nath highlighted the importance of integrating technology, experiential learning, and sustainability into commerce curricula to equip students for the complexities of the modern business environment. He stressed the need for syllabi revisions across programmes, including Commerce, to enhance employability, especially considering India’s demographic advantage. “With over 65% of its population under the age of 35, India’s youth have the potential to drive economic growth, innovation, and social transformation and fulfil the dream of Viksit Bharat,” he added.

Addressing the participants online, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Telangana, Prof Mohammad Akbar Ali Khan, stressed the importance of regular curriculum reviews to include contemporary topics such as fintech, global markets, and digital entrepreneurship.

“Collaboration with industry professionals and investments in technology are essential to provide students with real-world tools and resources. Partnerships with tech firms can further this endeavor,” he remarked.

Prof Khan also advocated for strengthening ties with industry through guest lectures, mentorship programmes, and industry-sponsored research projects to enhance learning experiences.

Prof Khan further said that Commerce education is at a pivotal juncture. “By embracing emerging trends and addressing contemporary issues, it can transform into a robust framework that not only meets industry demands, but also fosters responsible, innovative, and globally competent professionals.”

Prof Shailendra Nigam of IIM Nagpur, in his virtual address, underscored the need for commerce graduates to understand diverse cultural and regulatory environments in the context of global trade and international collaborations. “Commerce education must prioritise modules on ethics, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) to foster socially conscious graduates,” he said.

Prof Nigam also highlighted critical employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and technological proficiency that students must develop during their studies.

Dean of the College Development Council, University of Kashmir, Prof Khursheed A Bhat, called on educators to equip the next generation with skills relevant to a technology-driven economy while instilling a sense of ethics and sustainability.

“The growing number of unemployed graduates, including in commerce, underscores the need for professional, skill-based education to create successful entrepreneurs,” he stated.

Prof Bhat expressed concern over the declining number of students opting for commerce in Kashmir and urged efforts to reverse the trend.

Dean of the School of Business Studies, Prof Fayaz Ahmad Nikka, described commerce education as the bedrock of any economy. He noted its traditional focus on accounting, economics, and business studies is shifting toward fostering entrepreneurial, analytical, and strategic thinking skills. “Today’s curriculum emphasises creativity, adaptability, and a global perspective to prepare students for complex, technology-driven business environments,” he said.

Head, Department of Commerce and Conference Director, Dr Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, in his welcome address, highlighted the conference’s aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry by addressing contemporary challenges and exploring innovative solutions in commerce education. “The conference provides a platform to discuss emerging trends such as digitalisation, globalisation, sustainability, and technological advancements that are reshaping the field of commerce,” he added.

He informed that 38 research papers will be presented by scholars and faculty from higher educational institutions across the country during the four technical sessions.

Founder, Head Department of Commerce (CUK), Prof Musadiq Amin Sahaf, Deans of Schools, Heads and Coordinators of departments, faculty members, senior functionaries of the university, research scholars and students were present.

The programme proceedings were conducted by Assistant Professor Dr Rizwana Rafiq, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Assistant Professor Dr Asif Jeelani Khan. The conference is being sponsored by the State Bank of India and ICICI Bank.