In his talk, "Bridging the Gap: Aligning India's Education with Economic Realities," Kunal Vasudeva explores the urgent challenges facing India's job market and the steps needed to create meaningful employment for millions of young graduates. Kunal is the Managing Director and founding member of the Indian School of Hospitality, where he oversees brand strategy and growth. With over 30 years in the education sector, he specializes in establishing innovative institutions and building high-performance teams. Drawing on his experience in the hospitality sector and his deep commitment to societal development, Kunal addresses the critical misalignment between India's educational output and its economic needs. Through personal stories and thought-provoking insights, he examines the impact of this disparity on individuals like Ishmeet and Meera—people eager to contribute but often left waiting for opportunities that may never come.
Kunal takes us through a journey across the “Four Indias,” describing the unique challenges each segment faces and proposing transformative solutions. From elevating vocational training to the same level as academic degrees, to fostering public-private partnerships linked to production incentives, Kunal advocates for an approach that recognizes India’s diversity and leverages its strengths to meet global standards.
Kunal’s call to action is clear: by investing in high-quality education, nurturing elite teacher institutions, and reforming systemic structures, India can shift the narrative from "brain drain" to nation-building. Through his vision, he inspires us to create an India where knowledge, opportunity, and prosperity reach every corner of the nation.

As part of Sommet Education, the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) stands as India's premier institute for hospitality management and culinary arts, in partnership with Ecole Ducasse and Les Roches. Located in Gurugram, the international campus offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in both fields, delivering a global education guided by esteemed academicians and industry experts.
Check out this podcast in video format on the ISH Official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@indianschoolofhospitality