Interview, Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice-Chancellor of FLAME University, Pune.
Prof. Dishan Kamdar is the Vice-Chancellor of FLAME University, Pune, which specialises in liberal arts. Before joining FLAME, Kamdar was the deputy dean of academic programmes and professor of Organisational Behaviour at the Indian School of Business (ISB) Hyderabad. Kamdar taught Organisational Behaviour at the National University of Singapore (NUS). He started his career as an entrepreneur in 1998 as the owner of a trading firm. Later, he got interested in the theory behind motivation, leadership and negotiation skills, and subsequently pursued his Master’s in Science and specialised in Organisational Behaviour. Over the years, Kamdar’s skills in negotiations and decision making have helped him grow his business to achieve an annual turnover of over $65 mMillion. He holds a Ph.D from the National University of Singapore, 2004, M.Sc (Management), National University of Singapore, 2001 and BBA (Hons), National University of Singapore, 1999.

In an interview with THE WEEK, Kamdar speaks about the different aspects such as the challenges that higher education faces in India and FLAME's constant focus in the liberal arts sphere.

What are the kinds of challenges higher education faces in India? Is the university system in our country geared up to deal with the situation?
Higher education in India faces a unique set of challenges that require both institutional and systemic solutions to support the aspirations of a rapidly growing and diverse student population. Among these challenges are issues related to accessibility, quality, and the need for a curriculum that keeps pace with global advancements. One significant challenge is the need for curriculum modernisation. Rapid technological and economic changes have redefined the skills and knowledge required in the workforce, necessitating an educational system that is agile and responsive. To address this, institutions should focus on integrating interdisciplinary and experiential learning, fostering problem-solving and analytical thinking, and offering programes that combine traditional knowledge with new fields such as AI, sustainability, and digital humanities.

Another challenge is ensuring access to high-quality education for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. While India has a large number of higher education institutions, access to quality education, especially in rural areas, remains limited. For many students, financial barriers, lack of infrastructure, and regional disparities in educational resources prevent them from fully engaging with or completing their higher education. Expanding financial aid and scholarship programmes, improving infrastructure, and making education more inclusive are steps institutions can take to address these issues. Faculty development is also a pressing challenge. There is a need to train faculty in new pedagogies and technologies to enhance classroom engagement and address the learning needs of a diverse student body. Building faculty capacity through continuous professional development is essential to maintaining the quality of education.

What kind of contemporary and new courses has FLAME University introduced recently?
We have recently introduced a range of contemporary, interdisciplinary courses across our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that align with the demands of today's rapidly evolving world. FLAME has strengthened its offerings in data science and AI, recognizing their growing importance across sectors. Courses like Big Data Computing, Machine Learning for Data Science, Deep Learning and Computer Vision, and Natural Language Processing prepare students to harness and analyze complex data. The addition of Advanced Machine Learning, Machine Learning and Forecasting, Bayesian Data Analysis, and Advanced Analytical Modeling has helped our students in advanced analytics and predictive technologies.

In the field of design and creativity, we have introduced innovative courses such as Business and Services Design, Speculative Design, Data-Driven Design, and Information Design Visualization. These courses, along with Design Thinking and Innovations and Introduction to Information Design, encourage students to apply design thinking methodologies and creative problem-solving in real-world contexts.

In business and economics, new courses like Mergers and Acquisitions, FinTech, Sustainable Food Systems, and Carbon Accounting and Greenhouse Gas Management reflect emerging trends and crucial skills. In the domain of marketing, courses such as Digital Product Management, Web and Social Media Analytics, Marketing Innovation, and Entertainment, Media and Sports Marketing equip students with different strategies.

Additionally, in the areas of public policy and philosophy, courses like Policy Evaluation and Impact Assessment, Comparative Social Policy, and Asian Environmental Thought help students tackle global challenges with critical thinking and cultural awareness. These new courses prepare students for modern challenges with innovative knowledge, practical skills, and a forward-thinking mindset.

What are the selection criteria for students at your university?
Our selection process assesses a range of academic, personal, and extracurricular factors, seeking students who align with our core values and educational philosophy. Admission is made strictly on merit. FLAME has developed an internal assessment process that considers, but not limited to, the following aspects of a prospective student’s application: Admission Test, Personal Interview, Past Academic Record, Extracurricular activities, Achievements, Work Experience, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Essay and Letters of Recommendation.

At our university, the ideal candidate should embody a blend of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a collaborative spirit.

What is FLAME University's approach to liberal and interdisciplinary education?
FLAME University’s approach to liberal and interdisciplinary education emphasizes a broad, flexible learning framework that encourages students to explore multiple fields while developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. This model allows students to combine diverse disciplines, from psychology and political science to data science and design. Through this interdisciplinary lens, we encourage students to think beyond conventional boundaries, question assumptions, and engage in innovative problem-solving. We have foundation courses, which play a vital role in advancing both students' academic and personal growth. These courses, comprising the Foundation Core and the Universes of Knowledge, invite students to delve into diverse fields, building crucial skills such as critical thinking, communication, and writing.

The Foundation Core includes courses like Academic Writing, Critical Reasoning, Public Speaking, Digital Literacy, Applied Ethics, Environmental Studies, Mental Models, and Financial Literacy. Additionally, our students are encouraged to explore related disciplines across five major knowledge areas known as ‘Universes'—the five universes of knowledge are the Humanities, Social Sciences, Fine and Performing Arts, Physical and Natural Sciences, and Global Studies. This framework not only equips students for self-directed learning but also cultivates a mindset open to diverse viewpoints, allowing them to adapt fluidly to the demands of dynamic professional environments.

How do you prepare students for real-world challenges?
For us experiential learning is central to our philosophy. Programmes like the Discover India Programme (DIP) enable students to engage deeply with India’s cultural diversity. In this collaborative, team-based project, students explore and document various elements of Indian heritage—from art and literature to community traditions. Since its launch, DIP has completed over 250 projects, covering numerous states and Union territories and documenting the breadth of India’s cultural legacy.

To foster essential life skills, we also offer mandatory value-added courses in sports, professional skills: teamwork and career, and technology and society. These courses are crafted to boost employability and equip students with practical skills needed for both professional and personal success. To encourage creativity and independent thinking, we incorporate design thinking workshops and creative labs throughout its programs. Here, students learn to approach challenges with an open mind, combining analytical reasoning with inventive solutions.

We also have regular sessions with industry leaders—such as Don Norman, widely regarded as the father of UX design. He is also a member of the advisory body for FLAME’s School of Design, Art and Performance. This experience empowers students to explore beyond conventional career paths, cultivating a mindset that values innovation and adaptability.

How does allowing students to explore courses across disciplines before selecting majors and minors impact their academic and career trajectories at FLAME University?
At FLAME University, the option for students to explore multiple disciplines before selecting their major and minor has a lasting impact on their academic growth and career success. This flexibility allows students to learn broadly across various disciplines in their first year, helping them discover what truly appeals to them and where their passions lie. Rather than being limited to a single field from the outset, students gain exposure to a wide array of subjects, which fosters a more well-rounded understanding of the world. This exploration process gives them the opportunity to identify areas they want to dive deeper into as they select their majors and minors in the second year.

This interdisciplinary approach often leads to combinations that set students apart in their fields. For instance, a student majoring in Experience Design with a minor in Entrepreneurship is equipped to create user-centered solutions while also understanding the business foundations needed to bring these solutions to market. This pairing allows them to develop products and services with a keen eye for customer experience, an asset in industries ranging from technology startups to hospitality.

Also when a student combines Economics with Psychology it helps them develop an understanding of both economic systems and human behavior, making them effective in roles such as behavioral economics, market research, or consulting.

On similar lines, a major in Environmental Studies with a minor in Digital Marketing helps students champion sustainability initiatives through strategic digital campaigns, bridging the gap between environmental advocacy and communication. Broadly, these diverse combinations not only enhance students' employability but also cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability.

Do you think making sports compulsory with credits can influence students' overall development and well-being?
Yes, physical activity is not just about fitness it plays a crucial role in shaping a student's mental, emotional, and social health. By incorporating sports into the academic framework, students are encouraged to develop discipline, teamwork, time management, and resilience qualities that extend beyond the sports field and positively impact their academic and personal lives. Sports also provide a healthy outlet for stress, contributing to better mental well-being. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve concentration, cognitive function, and overall mood, helping students manage academic pressures more effectively. Moreover, engaging in sports fosters a sense of community and inclusivity as students from diverse backgrounds collaborate and support each other in team settings.

Furthermore, compulsory sports education can help students recognize the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

How has your university's model of education evolved to meet the changing needs of the global job market?
Understanding the shifting landscape of industries and careers, FLAME has placed a strong emphasis on offering flexible, adaptive learning pathways that align with both current and future job market requirements. Our interdisciplinary approach allows students to combine multiple fields of study, enabling them to develop a diverse skill set that goes beyond traditional academic boundaries. This approach is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving job market, where employers value adaptability, creativity, and the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives. Students are not just trained in a specific discipline but are equipped with the critical thinking, communication, and collaborative skills necessary to thrive in a wide range of careers.

We have incorporated experiential learning opportunities into our curriculum, including internships, industry projects, and hands-on workshops, providing students with practical, real-world experience. These opportunities help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making graduates job-ready from day one. The university's strong industry connections ensure that students stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies, further enhancing their employability. We also focus on nurturing skills in emerging fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, design, and sustainability, ensuring that students are prepared for careers in cutting-edge industries.

In conversation with The Week: Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor, FLAME University.