Queen Mary University of London Principal says, “universities must equip students to bridge the gap with industry”

Photo credits: QS India Summit 2025

Attending the annual conference were 500 leaders from universities, governments, and industries across the globe, who discussed the most pressing issues and opportunities in education.

The theme for this year’s summit, “Creating Equitable Educational Partnerships Amid Global Uncertainties: India’s Role in Fostering Innovation and Research,” highlighted India’s pivotal role in advancing global collaboration in education and research amid economic and geopolitical shifts and showcased the Country’s potential to become the skills capital of the world.

During one of the panel discussions – “India as the Skills Capital of the World: Preparing Students for Corporate Success,” – Professor Bailey from Queen Mary University joined experts from Australia, New Zealand, the UK and India.

They discussed how higher education institutions can enhance the employability of their students and prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world by bridging the skills gap between academic learning and industry demands.

As part of the panel, Professor Bailey highlighted the importance of equipping graduates with both technical expertise and soft skills such as leadership, critical analysis, ethical reasoning, and resilience, which are increasingly in demand.

Professor Bailey said: “It is essential to consider students as part of a broader educational ecosystem. Our responsibility is to ensure that they graduate with the necessary skills, opportunities, and access to top careers, regardless of their background. We must constantly evolve, and this is where international collaboration becomes crucial. In today’s working environment, we must continuously assess and adapt to global trends, considering different cultures and the ways companies operate both locally and internationally. The only way to achieve this effectively is through strong partnerships across the world”.

He continued: "At Queen Mary, about 50% of students are the first in their families to attend university. One crucial, yet overlooked, skill for them is confidence— it’s just as vital as teaching AI, creativity, and problem-solving. Social mobility isn’t just about access; it’s about participation, success, and meaningful employment. We work with over 200 companies to support social mobility, ensuring students not only enter university but also thrive in their careers. Businesses are now recognising the value of diversity of thought, understanding that a diverse workforce provides a competitive advantage and drives innovation".

Over the three days of the QS Summit, discussions also explored how educational institutions can develop resilient strategies in the face of climate change and economic disruptions, the impact of government policies on equitable education, and research and development frameworks.

As part of his visit to India, Professor Bailey and others from Queen Mary hosted receptions for university alumni based in New Delhi and Mumbai, strengthening Queen Mary’s ties with the global community and fostering new opportunities for collaboration.