Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 18: The Manel Srinivas Nayak Institute of Management (MSNIM), in association with the Indian Institute of Skill Development and Research (IISDR) and the Mangalore Management Association (MMA), organised the IISDR Skill Development Summit 2026 on the theme ‘Digital Skills for Future Managers’ on Wednesday, July 15 at its campus in Bondel. The summit aimed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements by exposing students to emerging digital technologies and career-oriented skills.
P A Jose, former general manager (HR), MRPL, inaugurated the summit. C Munikrishna, chief general manager (HR), KIOCL, was the chief guest, while Pradeep D'Souza, District Skill Development officer, Dakshina Kannada, attended as guest of honour. K V Raghav Kamath, Correspondent, MSNIM, presided over the programme.
In his inaugural address, P A Jose advised students to use artificial intelligence as a learning aid rather than a substitute for their own effort. "AI should complement reading and independent thinking, not replace them," he said.
C Munikrishna highlighted the role of AI in helping students bridge skill gaps, improve employability and prepare for changing career opportunities. Pradeep D'Souza encouraged students to acquire practical skills, participate in WorldSkills competitions and embrace emerging technologies. In his presidential address, K V Raghav Kamath demonstrated how AI can support research and decision-making while emphasising that human judgement and ethical use remain essential.
Delivering the keynote address, Rohith Castelino, HR leader, Elsevier India Tech Hubs, urged students to build a strong LinkedIn profile and make effective use of free AI platforms to strengthen their technical capabilities. "Those who continuously learn and adapt will remain competitive in the evolving job market," he observed.
Technical sessions were conducted by Raghu Anand, global head of Technology and Learning & Development, EGDK India and Vedanth K, senior software engineer, Novigo Solutions Pvt Ltd.
Dr Ronald Sequeira, executive director, IISDR, Dr Steevan Pinto, convener, IISDR, Mangaluru, Edward Coelho, president, Mangalore Management Association, and IISDR advisors Dr Laxmish Rai, Dr Devaraj K, P Suresh and Jayaram were present.
Assistant professor (Senior Scale) Sathvika Shetty welcomed the gathering. Assistant professors Divya Achar, Arpita Devadiga, Sukesh Rao Pejavar, Sanath Bhandarkar and Nanditha Sunil introduced the dignitaries and speakers. Arpita Devadiga proposed the vote of thanks, and Manasa compered the programme.