Students urged to become job creators, not seekers

A two-day national seminar on the theme, "Punjab 2047: Forging the Future through Entrepreneurship and Innovation" got underway at Guru Nanak Dev University.

Eminent academicians, policymakers, researchers and scholars echoed the view that Punjab 2047, in line with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, can prosper with entrepreneurship, innovation and knowledge-driven development.

Batting for innovation and technology-driven business and agri-economy, bridging skill gaps and building rural economy, the panel of experts said only adaptability can shape a sustainable, inclusive and progressive future for Punjab by 2047.

The speakers at the event included Guru Nanak Dev University vice-chancellor Dr Karamjeet Singh, Dr Alok Chakrawal, vice-chancellor, Central University, Bilaspur, Amarjit Grewal, renowned expert in Punjabi literature and Dr Mamta Rani Aggarwal, Additional Secretary, AIU.

Prof Karamjeet Singh emphasised that the vision of Punjab 2047 requires a shift toward innovation-led growth, entrepreneurial ecosystems and stronger academia-industry linkages. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, he highlighted the four guiding pillars-Kirat Karo (honest labour), Naam Japo (remembrance of the divine), Vand Chhako (sharing with others), and the spirit of Chardi Kala (eternal optimism).

In his presidential address, Dr Alok Chakrawal began with "new beginnings", highlighting that for the state to achieve the vision of Viksit Punjab, every student must embrace entrepreneurship, becoming job creators rather than job seekers. "When the youth innovate, start enterprises and contribute actively to the economy, Punjab can realise its full potential and become truly developed by 2047, but this should come with awareness and ethical understanding of entrepreneurship ecosystems," he said.

Dr Mamta Rani stated that the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 must begin with strong and progressive states, and Punjab 2047 has a crucial role to play in this national journey. "Building robust incubation ecosystems, directly contributes to building a developed nation," she added.

Amarjit Grewal, renowned expert in Punjabi literature, emphasised the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and stated that by 2047, AI will not replace humans but will significantly enhance the role and capabilities of individuals across sectors. "Innovation must go hand in hand with ethics, adding that an innovative and ethical Punjab can be built on the principle of Kirat-based entrepreneurship, a vision deeply rooted in the teachings of our Gurus," he said.

Dean Faculty, Dr Lakhwinder Singh, stated that agriculture remains one of the most vital sectors globally, supporting nearly one billion people of working age and ensuring food security for the world. Dr Balwinder Singh, Director, Golden Jubilee Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, said that deliberations over subjects including heritage, media, sustainability, governance and public policy, all contributing to the broader vision of Punjab 2047, will continue at the university.