INITIATING CAREER OPTIONS FOR STUDENTS….

Utpal Chatterjee : Sheriff, Kolkata 28th. November, 2023.  Rarely has there been such a packed house (at J. W. Marriott) for a Prinicipals’ Seminar and rarely has there been such enthusiasm and excitement to listen to the three main speakers. Ashoke Viswanathan started the proceedings and stuck to his forte, the audio-visual medium and cinema, as a career option. His was an absorbing presentation.Now,it is for school authorities to find out who has the aptitude to take up cinema seriously and provide the amenities needed.RJ Mir,popular on the FM and the TV, had a whole lot of inspiring anecdotes.But he assured of all the help needed from his end.As the Chief Guest, it was imperative for Yours Truly (Utpal Chatterjee) that I bring forth the hard realities and present the real picture of what happens in and after school. Much of the education,especially in the Government aided universities is subsidised.But most of the really bright ones find job offers abroad irresistible.At a time when India is fast evolving,new trade deals being signed and investments coming in, it would be sad to see the really bright ones adding to the Indian diaspora abroad. For a model of really good education I cited the example of Finland that the top ten nations known for imparting excellent education emulate.Every speaker got 20 minutes and another 10 for interaction with the audience.I have nothing but praise and gratitude to The Times of India group for leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the event.May there be more such events that do not just provide food for thought but cerebral entertainment too.