ICFAI Celebrates 15th Foundation Day with Lecture by IIM Kozhikode Director
Hyderabad: Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, Director of IIM Kozhikode, delivered the 15th Foundation Day Lecture at ICFAI on Thursday. He spoke about the uniqueness of human existence, saying, “Neither artificial intelligence nor natural stupidity can access that core of our existence that starts with ‘I am’; ‘I am’ is my existential reality.”
He emphasized that no device can replicate this reality as it cannot be programmed. According to him, education should focus on understanding the individual and their purpose in life. He also pointed out that ancient Indian universities like Takshashila were built on deep philosophical and religious traditions.
Prof. Chatterjee explained that Indian Thought is becoming more relevant as India shifts from consumption to innovation. He stressed that the country must turn its large population into human capital. He also highlighted the importance of recognizing value in deficiencies, as skills developed through challenges are often not taught in universities. Instead of just developing skills, he urged students to discover their unique abilities and bring them into mainstream thinking.
Speaking about India’s vast potential, Prof. Chatterjee said that the world can learn from India’s ability to function on a large scale. He also pointed out the role of the English language in communicating Indian philosophy and stressed the need to set global benchmarks in research. He concluded by outlining three key roles of educational institutions—research, teaching, and consulting. He also introduced the concept of ‘flexpertise,’ which refers to expertise that is flexible enough to connect with its audience.
Dr. C Rangarajan, Chancellor of ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, presided over the function. He remarked that while ancient Indian knowledge was valuable, not all of it is relevant today. He emphasized the need to identify and apply ancient Indian wisdom that is still useful in the modern world.
Vice Chancellor Dr. L S Ganesh, in his introductory speech, spoke about the importance of ‘Satyameva Jayate’ (Truth Alone Triumphs) as the foundation of Indian Thought. He encouraged students to value both classroom learning and experiences outside the classroom.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Sobha Rani Yasaswy, Chairperson of ICFAI Society, Dr. J Mahender Reddy, Distinguished Advisor at ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, Prof. B J Rao, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, and Prof. Mendu Rammohan Rao, former Dean Emeritus of ISB Hyderabad. Other dignitaries, faculty members, and students were also present.
