HR Pro Confluence 2023: A Historic Convergence of Industry and Academia

Introduction

The HR Pro Confluence 2023, held on the 7th of November in Islamabad, Pakistan, was a groundbreaking event that brought together thought leaders, HR professionals, and academic pioneers to explore and strengthen the synergy between industry and academia. This prestigious gathering served as a unique platform for insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and the forging of new collaborations, all centered around the theme “Fostering Industry-Academia Collaboration.”

HRPC Theme: “Fostering Industry-Academia Collaboration”

The theme of HR Pro Confluence 2023 resonated deeply with the challenges and opportunities facing both the corporate and academic worlds. The event aimed to bridge the skills gap between graduates and industry requirements, ensuring a seamless transition from campus to corporate.

Programme Agenda

The event commenced with a warm Welcome Note, followed by the Acknowledgement of Speakers, Panelists, and Partners, setting the stage for an enriching experience.

Keynote Speeches

1. Dr. Ali Raza Nemati (Director HR, Qualify UK)
   • Bridging the Gap: Essential Skills Graduates Need for Corporate Success
     • Dr. Nemati’s keynote highlighted the critical skills that graduates need to thrive in today’s competitive corporate landscape, emphasizing practical knowledge and adaptability.
2. Ms. Sonia Farooq (Chief HR Officer, Umicrofinance Bank)
   • The Skills Divide: What Employers Wish Graduates Were Taught in College
     • Ms. Farooq’s insights delved into the disconnect between academic curricula and industry expectations, advocating for a more integrated approach to education.
3. Mr. Amjad Iqbal (Group Vice President Growth Partner, PTCL)
   • The Digital Divide: Navigating the Gap Between Graduate Skills and Technological Advancements
     • Mr. Iqbal addressed the rapid technological advancements and the necessity for graduates to be well-versed in digital competencies.
4. Ms. Sumbal Manzoor (Director Academics, International Centre of Excellence)
   • Modern Curriculum: Teaching Graduates the Art of Relationship Building
     • Ms. Manzoor focused on the importance of interpersonal skills and relationship-building as vital components of a modern curriculum.
5. Mr. Adil Kazi (Director Executive Development Centre, FAST National University)
   • Nurturing Talent: Campus to Corporate, Role of Academic Institutions
     • Mr. Kazi’s session shed light on the pivotal role academic institutions play in preparing students for corporate success.

Moderation Sessions

1. The Employability Challenge: Addressing the Skills Gap in Graduates
   • Moderated by Dr. Ali Raza Nemati, this session featured Dr. Samina (Lead Organizational Development, Mobilink MB), Mr. Abdul Khaliq (Head of Talent Acquisition, HBL Microfinance Bank), Mr. Abdul Shakoor (Chief Financial Officer, Boss Home Appliances), Sana Hameed (Expert Talent Acquisition & Employer Brand, NUST), and Mr. Zouhair Khaliq (Founder & General Partner, Teamup Group). The discussions were robust, addressing the pressing need for aligning academic outputs with industry requirements.

Conclusion

The HR Pro Confluence 2023 concluded with inspiring Closing Remarks and Shield Distribution by the Guest of Honor, followed by Networking and High Tea. This landmark event not only provided a rich tapestry of insights and strategies but also cemented new relationships between industry leaders and academic institutions. The dialogues fostered at this confluence will undoubtedly ripple through the corridors of both sectors, driving meaningful change and collaboration.

The event exemplified the essence of HR excellence, leaving an indelible mark on all attendees. By bridging gaps, sharing innovative practices, and fostering a spirit of collaboration, HR Pro Confluence 2023 has set a high benchmark for future endeavors in the realm of human resources and academia.