School Academia Industry Interface

At Chitkara International School, the Academia-Industry Interface programme provides students with invaluable opportunities to engage directly with industry professionals, educationists, leaders, and entrepreneurs who have made significant strides in their respective fields. The importance of a robust industry-academic partnership in shaping students who are well-prepared, adaptable, and proactive in their careers is recognised. This initiative offers a diverse array of opportunities and programmes designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of industry dynamics. Through these interactions, students gain practical insights and develop essential skills that contribute to their readiness for the professional world. Additionally, the curriculum includes various workshops that meet the requirements set by regulatory bodies, ensuring students receive hands-on experience and industry-relevant training.

To facilitate the smooth execution of these workshops, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Workshop Planning and Organisation has been established. This SOP ensures that all workshops are conducted effectively, providing students with enriching experiences that bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Workshops/Sessions

At Chitkara International School, the critical importance of connecting academic learning with real-world industry practices is recognised. Workshops and sessions are meticulously designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world. A diverse array of industry-focused workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions is regularly hosted, bringing students face-to-face with leading professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry experts.

These sessions offer invaluable insights into current industry trends, emerging technologies, and practical skills required in various fields. By engaging with professionals who have made significant strides in their respective industries, students gain a deeper understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen careers. The workshops are structured to cover a broad range of topics, including industry-specific skills, career planning, and innovation trends, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future challenges.

Some of these include:

• Change the Game (CTG) Sessions

Selecting the right stream and career path is a pivotal decision for students in grades 9 to 12, shaping their future academic and professional journeys. Recognising the prevalent uncertainty among students regarding career options, Chitkara International School (CIS) offers the “Change the Game” (CTG) initiative—a premier School Academia-Industry Interface programme. CTG is designed to provide students with invaluable opportunities to interact with industry professionals, educators, leaders, and entrepreneurs who have made significant strides in their respective fields.

CTG provides a dynamic platform for students to gain insights into various career paths and industry trends. By participating in this programme, students are exposed to real-world experiences and acquire essential 21st-century skills that are critical for success in today’s evolving job market. This initiative ensures that students are well-prepared to make informed decisions about their futures and excel in a competitive environment.

http://www.chitkaraschool.in/change-the-game/

• Frolic Fridays

At Chitkara International School, learning is infused with excitement and real-world relevance, particularly for students in grades 11 and 12. To bridge the gap between academia and industry, “Frolic Fridays” have been introduced—a series of engaging events designed to make Fridays both enjoyable and educational. Each session features industry experts who share their insights, experiences, and practical knowledge with students, providing a lively and interactive platform for learning.
Frolic Fridays are crafted to offer students a closer look at various career paths and industry trends. By engaging directly with professionals who are leaders in their fields, students gain valuable perspectives that enhance their academic experience and better prepare them for their future careers. This initiative ensures that Fridays become a highlight of the week, blending enjoyment with valuable industry connections and fostering a deeper understanding of the practical applications of their studies.

• Structured Counselling Sessions

At Chitkara International School, the importance of aligning career planning with industry trends and the evolving job market is recognised. The career counselling programme offers both individual and group sessions to keep students and parents informed and prepared. In personalised one-on-one sessions, specific concerns are addressed, and career paths tailored to individual interests and skills are explored, providing insights into current industry trends and emerging fields. Group counselling sessions bring students and parents together to discuss career opportunities and industry developments, facilitated by career experts and industry professionals. Workshops and seminars included in the programme bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, offering practical advice and up-to-date information on skills needed for various fields.

• Fairs, Fests and Expos

At Chitkara International School, lively and immersive experiences that blend academic insights with creative exploration are provided through fairs and festivals. These events are thoughtfully curated to offer students an engaging platform where their talents can be showcased and interactions with industry experts can occur. Annual fairs and festivals are vibrant showcases of student innovation and enthusiasm. Interactive displays, practical workshops, and spirited contests are featured, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and experiences. By connecting with professionals and leaders from various fields, a deeper appreciation of career opportunities and industry dynamics is gained by students. These events not only highlight student achievements but also facilitate meaningful interactions, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications.
Some of these include:

• Lit Fest

The Lit Fest at Chitkara International School is a celebration of literary prowess and creative expression. This annual event brings together students to engage in dynamic discussions, workshops, and readings. Participants explore various genres, hone their writing skills, and gain insights from seasoned professionals, enriching their appreciation for literature while fostering a vibrant literary community within the school.

• Design Fest

The Design Fest is a showcase of innovation and creativity, where students delve into the world of design and technology. This event features a variety of exhibits, including student-led design projects, interactive workshops, and presentations from industry professionals. By engaging with cutting-edge design concepts and techniques, students gain valuable hands-on experience and insights, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

• Skill Expo

The Skill Expo is an exciting platform for students to demonstrate their diverse talents and practical skills. This event highlights a wide range of activities, from technical demonstrations to artistic performances. Students interact with experts and gain feedback on their work, while also exploring new skills and interests. The expo serves as a vibrant forum for learning, showcasing student achievements and encouraging the pursuit of personal and professional growth.

• Career Expo

The Career Expo at Chitkara International School is a comprehensive event designed to illuminate the myriad of degree options and career pathways available to students. Through detailed presentations, interactive displays, and expert-led discussions, students gain a thorough understanding of various professions and academic fields. The expo provides in-depth information on educational requirements, career prospects, and industry trends, empowering students to make informed decisions about their future educational and professional journeys.

• Educational Industry Visits

Educational industry visits are a cornerstone of the curriculum at Chitkara International School, offering students invaluable practical knowledge beyond the classroom. These excursions to institutions like Chitkara University, the Verka Milk Plant, IT Park Chandigarh, IMTECH, and FORTIS Hospital, among others, provide students with immersive experiences that enhance their learning. By engaging directly with various industries and organisations, students gain insights into real-world applications of their studies, stimulating curiosity and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical understanding.

• Internships

At Chitkara International School, the integration of practical experience with academic learning is exemplified through the comprehensive internship programme for Grades 11 and 12. The Industry Immersion Handbook is used to facilitate exceptional internship experiences at prestigious organisations, guided by David A. Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory (ELT). The programme is structured into four stages—Learner (Concrete Experience), Observer (Reflective Observation), Performer (Abstract Conceptualisation), and Achiever (Active Experimentation)—ensuring that students receive meaningful, hands-on exposure to their fields of interest and are effectively prepared for their future careers.

• Encouraging Job Shadowing for Insightful Learning

At Chitkara International School, the importance of experiential learning is valued, and job shadowing is actively promoted as a vital component of career exploration. By observing professionals in their everyday roles, students gain a firsthand look at the work environment and industry dynamics. This immersive experience enhances their understanding of various career paths, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers and offering a unique perspective on the skills and responsibilities associated with different professions.