In the ever-changing world of technology, educators are faced with the challenge of preparing their students for a future that could look very different to our current world.
While some people highlight concerns about the rapidly developing digital world, the IB sees the opportunities, and is bringing IB World Schools on a journey of exploring the possibilities.
Technology will play a significant role in our future world, so providing students with the knowledge and skills they will need to flourish is more important than ever.
Timely and indispensable
One school leading the way is Pathways School Gurgaon in India. Students have the opportunity to study a business administration and artificial intelligence programme, offered jointly by the IB and WACP as part of the IB’s Career-related Programme (CP).
“The business administration and artificial intelligence programme stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to furnishing cutting-edge educational opportunities. In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, it is not only timely but also indispensable.” Capt. Rohit Sen Bajaj, School Director
With a curriculum that covers a wide range of entrepreneurship-related topics, as well as the opportunity to learn in a hands-on way with real-world projects and internships, students are developing the skills they need to be the business leaders of tomorrow.
Ridhima Khandelwal is a CP student at the school and wants to start their own company. “I wanted to get a comprehensive understanding of company ethics and procedures. I was drawn to the practical approach of the programme because it would enable me to apply the knowledge and abilities I had acquired in the classroom to actual business situations.”
From principles to pitch
Kshitiz Gupta, Educator CRS Business Administration at the school, explained how the knowledge and skills taught in the classroom are then put into action by the students. “They are genuinely excited about applying their knowledge to solve practical business challenges, and this passion is contagious within the classroom.”
“One remarkable achievement from our students in the business administration programme was their participation in the IB League Entrepreneurship Challenge. They pitched an innovative business idea that involved creating a styling app using AI technology. Their dedication and hard work paid off as they qualified for the semi-finals and received commendation for their comprehensive business plan, which seamlessly integrated AI into the fashion industry.”
A holistic approach
The IB is world-renowned for providing a holistic approach to education, recognizing that the development of a student reaches far beyond the academics. Developing key skills such as collaboration, problem-solving and risk-taking help students prepare for the future – which is something that drew Alman Bansal, another CP student at Pathways School Gurgaon, to the programme.
“My focus on a clear career path led me to this programme, offering a holistic educational experience that not only cultivates essential skills and knowledge in the field of business studies but also provides insights into topics that will be covered in college. Collaborative learning is a pivotal component of our classes. Through collaborative tasks involving real-world problem-solving, we engage with our peers, gaining diverse perspectives and exploring alternative solutions. These activities significantly enhance our problem-solving and communication skills.”
The CP is not only bridging the gap between conventional classroom learning and the contemporary job market, but also enriches students with the attributes that every IB graduate boasts – a global connectedness and respect for different cultures and perspectives.
Educators at Pathways School Gurgaon recognize the transformative power of aligning business studies with lessons focused on artificial intelligence. The Senior DPCP Coordinator at the school, Megha Oberoi, summarized the impact of the programme: “The business administration and artificial intelligence programme, offered jointly by IBCP and WACP, is a transformative journey that promises growth, innovation, and a profound impact on society.”