In a world of rapid change and digital disruption, a quiet yet powerful transformation unfolded in the heart of Kolkata’s Sector V this Sunday, July 27th, 2025. ASMi Business School, in partnership with HR Learning Network, hosted S.H.I.F.T. 2025—a day-long immersive experience bringing together HR leaders, young managers, and cross-functional professionals to explore what the future of work really means for humans, not just for systems. S.H.I.F.T., which stands for “Skills. Humanity. Innovation. Future. Transformation.”, wasn’t just another corporate event. The ASMi campus was alive with thoughtful conversations, creative reflection, and honest questions about where we’re heading as people in the workplace.
The day began with “Connection & Curiosity”—a refreshing twist to the usual formalities. Instead of lectures, attendees mingled using prompt cards, snapped selfies at a vibrant installation, and contributed to a hashtag wall. The intent was simple: break the ice, spark curiosity, and acknowledge that meaningful change begins with connection.
The formal opening, “Setting the Intention”, was equally mindful. With introductions from ASMi Business School and the HR Learning Network, the room was anchored in purpose. The tone was set—not for passive listening, but for active, collective learning.
One of the morning’s most heartfelt moments was Session 1: “The Swarup Way.” In a candid conversation with Kaustav Majumdar, former bureaucrat and changemaker Mr. Anil Swarup opened up about the realities of leadership—not just the wins, but the lessons learned through tough decisions and human encounters. His stories resonated deeply, prompting a standing ovation and concluding with a meaningful gesture: a book donation to Nexus of Good by My Pustak.
Session 2: “Skills, Scale & Systems” pivoted the energy toward practical wisdom. Geeta Tolia reminded the audience that “Productivity is Personal”, encouraging professionals to design their own systems of excellence. Indranil Guha expanded this idea further, while Suprakash Das spoke on “Skills AI Won’t Replace”, highlighting the enduring power of empathy, judgment, and communication.
The afternoon sessions tackled the big questions. Session 3: “2030 and the Workforce – Fear or Fuel?” opened with a provocative talk titled “What If Jobs Vanish but Work Grows?” led by moderator Prithwish Bose. It was followed by a live debate that saw both optimism and caution. While Kanchan Mallick and Recha Paliwal argued that AI would enhance human potential, Prithwiraj Mukherjee and Arnab Chowdhuri warned of job displacement and ethical risks. A live poll revealed a split audience—hopeful but alert. The session concluded with a practical roundup: “Survival Skills for the Next 5 Years,” which encouraged attendees to focus on adaptability, lifelong learning, and emotional resilience.
Session 4: “When IR Meets AI” shifted the lens to global dynamics. Moderated by Pradip Banerjee, this panel explored how industrial relations are being reshaped by artificial intelligence. Experts like Kallol Dutta, Arnab Majumdar, and Anindita Paul Dutta tackled complex themes—power, ethics, automation, and the enduring need for human touch in high-stakes negotiations. The discussion was intense but grounded, ending with live questions from the audience that cantered around real-world dilemmas: How do you balance fairness with efficiency? What does empathy look like in the age of algorithms?
As the day neared its end, the atmosphere shifted from intellectual to introspective. “The Mind & Us” was a soul-stirring segment led by Souvik Biswas, CEO of Zest International. His virtues talk— “Accountability, Respect, and Wisdom: The Lost Skills”—reminded everyone that in the rush for digital transformation, we
must not lose our moral compass.
Attendees then chose one of three reflection tracks: a guided mindfulness session, a role-play on conflict resolution, or silent writing on “What Wisdom Means to Me.” In the final reflection circle, participants shared what moved them most.
The closing segment, “Evening Networking & Talk Tables,” was designed less as a goodbye and more as a celebration of new beginnings. Around themed tables, people shared their toughest decisions, cultural hacks that worked, and values they had to let go of. Ideas flowed, cards were exchanged, and promises to stay in touch were made.
S.H.I.F.T. 2025 wasn’t just about the future of work. It was about the future of people at work. It reminded everyone in attendance that no matter how advanced technology gets, the most powerful force in any organization remains the human spirit.