Pravesh Dudani
Founder Chancellor
Pravesh Dudani, the Founder Chancellor of Medhavi Skills University, is not just an educationist but a visionary who believes in the transformative power of education. His commitment to youth leadership is evident in his endeavors to reshape the educational landscape, aligning it with the New National Education Policy's vision of holistic and multidisciplinary learning.
Below is an excerpt of Pravesh Dudani’s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights magazine.
How has your entrepreneurial journey been so far? What is the motivation that fuels your daily routines?
My journey began with a deep-rooted passion for education, ignited during my transformative years at IIT Kharagpur. Over nearly two decades, I've pioneered and nurtured various educational ventures, each reflecting my commitment to revolutionizing the way we approach learning. The New National Education Policy's emphasis on practical and outcome based learning resonated with my belief in valuing real-world experiences. At Medhavi Skills University, we're not just imparting knowledge; we're shaping future leaders, innovators, and change makers. Every day, I'm driven by the potential I see in our youth and the transformative power of education.
Could you tell us about the unique experiences IIT Kharagpur offers and what did you learn from the campus beyond academics?
My five years at IIT Kharagpur were truly enriching, and while the classroom education was valuable, I found even greater learning and growth outside those walls. The dynamic environment fostered student-run communities and societies encompassing music, dance, and technology fests. Engaging in extracurricular activities led to cherished friendships, and I am immensely proud of my batchmates excelling in leadership roles worldwide. Also, I sensed the need for a more industry-experienced faculty to inspire students for their corporate journeys. This insight ignited my passion to revolutionize education with industry relevant practices. I envisioned involving corporates in the learning process, ensuring real-world applications and meaningful outcomes. This multidimensional approach to education, which is now a cornerstone of the New National Education Policy, deeply influenced my vision for Medhavi Skills University.
How would you define Medhavi Skills University as an organization and its current position in the market?
At Medhavi Skills University, we go beyond the traditional university model. Recognized by both UGC and NCVET, we possess the authority to customize and offer Skill integrated degree courses and NSQF aligned standard skill competency certifications, as well as establish occupational standards for professional training. Our focus extends to collaborating with various industries to develop short-term credit-bearing certifications. For instance, partnering with South India's prominent music production studio, we offer courses in music production and technology, sound engineering, and sound mixing. These courses seamlessly lead to a comprehensive BSc degree in sound engineering and music production. Additionally, we believe in valuing work experience, aligning with the new National Education Policy. This enables candidates to convert their real-world expertise into academic credits, significantly reducing the time and effort required to earn a
My five years at IIT Kharagpur were truly enriching, and while the classroom education was valuable, I found even greater learning and growth outside those walls. The dynamic environment fostered student-run communities and societies encompassing music, dance, and technology fests. Engaging in extracurricular activities led to cherished friendships, and I am immensely proud of my batchmates excelling in leadership roles worldwide. Also, I sensed the need for a more industry-experienced faculty to inspire students for their corporate journeys. This insight ignited my passion to revolutionize education with industry relevant practices. I envisioned involving corporates in the learning process, ensuring real-world applications and meaningful outcomes. This multidimensional approach to education, which is now a cornerstone of the New National Education Policy, deeply influenced my vision for Medhavi Skills University.
Empowering the youth today is our bridge to a better, brighter, transformative tomorrow
How would you define Medhavi Skills University as an organization and its current position in the market?
At Medhavi Skills University, we go beyond the traditional university model. Recognized by both UGC and NCVET, we possess the authority to customize and offer Skill integrated degree courses and NSQF aligned standard skill competency certifications, as well as establish occupational standards for professional training. Our focus extends to collaborating with various industries to develop short-term credit-bearing certifications. For instance, partnering with South India's prominent music production studio, we offer courses in music production and technology, sound engineering, and sound mixing. These courses seamlessly lead to a comprehensive BSc degree in sound engineering and music production. Additionally, we believe in valuing work experience, aligning with the new National Education Policy. This enables candidates to convert their real-world expertise into academic credits, significantly reducing the time and effort required to earn a
degree. Emphasizing practical learning, our programs cater to the needs of today's dynamic industries, ensuring our students are well-prepared for a successful and rewarding future.
Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?
My leadership philosophy is anchored in three core aspects: Vision, Empowerment, and Empathy. I believe in setting a clear, transformative vision that not only charts our path but inspires those around me. Empowerment is key; I trust and delegate, allowing my team the autonomy to innovate and take ownership of their roles. This fosters a culture of responsibility and innovation. Lastly, empathy drives every decision I make. Understanding the aspirations, challenges, and dreams of our students ensures that we remain student centric in our approach. At Medhavi, we're not just imparting knowledge; we're shaping futures, and that responsibility guides every step I take.
In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?
We are living in one of the most exciting times for education. The confluence of technology, globalization, and a renewed focus on holistic development presents unparalleled opportunities. For budding leaders, my advice is to be audacious in your vision. Dream big, because today's challenges demand bold solutions. Embrace change, for it's the only constant in our rapidly evolving world. But most importantly, always keep the youth at the heart of your mission. They are not just students; they are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of our country. By empowering them, by understanding their aspirations and equipping them with the right tools, we have the unique opportunity to shape the future of our nation. This is our moment to make a lasting impact, to leave a legacy that future generations will look back on with pride.
Pravesh Dudani, Founder Chancellor, Medhavi Skills University
Pravesh Dudani, an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, is a visionary thought leader in the education industry. With a passion for empowering youth, he founded Medhavi Foundation in 2012 and then established Medhavi Skills University, driving transformation in skill-integrated higher education.
Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?
My leadership philosophy is anchored in three core aspects: Vision, Empowerment, and Empathy. I believe in setting a clear, transformative vision that not only charts our path but inspires those around me. Empowerment is key; I trust and delegate, allowing my team the autonomy to innovate and take ownership of their roles. This fosters a culture of responsibility and innovation. Lastly, empathy drives every decision I make. Understanding the aspirations, challenges, and dreams of our students ensures that we remain student centric in our approach. At Medhavi, we're not just imparting knowledge; we're shaping futures, and that responsibility guides every step I take.
In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?
We are living in one of the most exciting times for education. The confluence of technology, globalization, and a renewed focus on holistic development presents unparalleled opportunities. For budding leaders, my advice is to be audacious in your vision. Dream big, because today's challenges demand bold solutions. Embrace change, for it's the only constant in our rapidly evolving world. But most importantly, always keep the youth at the heart of your mission. They are not just students; they are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of our country. By empowering them, by understanding their aspirations and equipping them with the right tools, we have the unique opportunity to shape the future of our nation. This is our moment to make a lasting impact, to leave a legacy that future generations will look back on with pride.
Pravesh Dudani, Founder Chancellor, Medhavi Skills University
Pravesh Dudani, an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, is a visionary thought leader in the education industry. With a passion for empowering youth, he founded Medhavi Foundation in 2012 and then established Medhavi Skills University, driving transformation in skill-integrated higher education.