Kerala’s Industries, Law and Coir Minister P Rajeev declared the Jain Deemed-to-be-University’s ambitious Summit of the Future open at a glittering function attended by people’s representatives, business leaders, industry honchos, academics and students at the Kinfra international Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre in Kochi on Saturday.

For the next seven days, India’s biggest futuristic and vibrant festival will witness thought-provoking panel discussions, presentation of innovative ideas and strategies apart from master classes and workshops by eminent personalities from across the world.
Rajeev congratulated the Jain Deemed-to-be-University for organising such a remarkable event that will help mould the future leaders of the country.
Rajeev, who just returned from Davos after attending the World Economic Forum, waxed eloquent about Kerala’s huge potential in various sectors. “I attended several meetings in Davos to showcase the potential of Kerala, which is the No. 1 state for ease of doing business. We are the only state in India to fully digitalise banking,” he said.
The minister said technology has the potential to transform society. “I am happy that Kerala is hosting all technology summits.”
In his opening remarks, Dr Tom Joseph, Director, New Initiatives of the university, explained how the summit will impact the future.
“The event is not just for scholars and teachers. It’s for everyone. That’s the thought process we applied when curating the event.”
“Our event has a vision. We want to retain our talent. We are here promoting inclusivity,” he added.
Jain University Chancellor Dr Chenraj Roychand said Kerala will add new dimensions to the services sector in the country. “Our university is here to impact the Kerala economy. We want to promote entrepreneurship in the state,” he said.
Member of Parliament Hibi Eden, while delivering keynote address, touched upon Kerala’s tryst with education.
“But the best brains are across the globe, that’s the sad part. Hope it will be reversed by organising events like this.”
University Vice-Chancelllor Raj Singh, British Deputy Head of Mission Shalini Medeppalli, Infoparks CEO Sushanth Kurunthil also spoke.
Uma Thomas, MLA, who is recovering from an injury, addressed the gathering online from a city hospital.
The inaugural session concluded with the closing remarks by the university pro vice-chancellor J Letha.