Goa: Universities must move beyond founder-dependent leadership and develop governance structures that allow future generations to innovate without compromising the institution’s founding purpose, education leaders said at the ETEducation Chancellors’ Conclave 2026.
Speaking during the Trilogue Chat, “From Founder-Led to Institution-Led: The Succession Challenge,” moderated by Devina Lason, Editor – Video Initiatives & Senior Anchor, The Economic Times Business Verticals, five institutional and technology leaders examined how universities can manage leadership transitions while preserving their culture, credibility and long-term vision.
The discussion highlighted that succession planning must begin well before founders step away, with emerging leaders gaining practical experience and decision-making responsibilities alongside existing leadership.
Succession must begin before founders step back
Harshavardhan Patil, Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, emphasised that managing a university requires a different approach from running a conventional business because educational expectations and academic models continuously evolve.
He argued that the next generation must be involved in institutional management while experienced leaders are still active, allowing them to understand governance responsibilities and changing student expectations.
Pranav Padode, Vice President & Trustee, Vijaybhoomi University, maintained that enduring institutions are built around a compelling founding vision that continues to guide decisions across generations.
Drawing on his own experience of generational leadership transition, he stressed that institutions must preserve their core identity while allowing new leaders to introduce different approaches.
Padode also acknowledged the tensions that can arise between experienced faculty and younger professionals, arguing that institutional progress requires adaptability from both generations.
Strategic planning and innovation can strengthen institutional continuity
Jayadeep K R Reddy, Pro-Chancellor & Chief Executive Officer, CMR Group of Institutions, highlighted the importance of strategic planning and design thinking in shaping institutions for future needs.Drawing on his background in architecture and management, he explained how campus planning can be used to rethink learning environments, including libraries, shared spaces and facilities that support wider community engagement.
He argued that design thinking and structured planning can help institutions allocate resources effectively while developing stronger problem-solving capabilities across academic programmes.
Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Director, JIS Group, emphasised the challenges of maintaining consistent academic standards and institutional values across multiple educational institutions.
He highlighted the importance of experimentation, adaptability and continuous improvement, noting that educational initiatives often require several years before their outcomes can be properly evaluated.
With technology accelerating the pace of change, he stressed that university leaders must remain open to new approaches while retaining the institutional principles that guide their decisions.
Technology transformation must align with institutional purpose
Mayank Saxena, CEO, REDUCATE.AI, argued that technological transformation should begin with understanding an institution’s vision, culture and specific operational challenges.
He highlighted concerns surrounding AI adoption costs, data privacy and institutional control over digital infrastructure.
Discussing his organisation’s work on AI-enabled campus solutions, Saxena described efforts to develop locally hosted AI systems that could reduce dependence on external cloud infrastructure while addressing data security and affordability concerns.
He emphasised that technology strategies must support an institution’s underlying objectives rather than dictate its direction.
The panel concluded that the next generation of university leaders must have the freedom to modernise institutional practices while preserving the values and purpose established by their predecessors.
The defining test of successful succession will be whether universities can sustain their founding vision through changing leadership, evolving technologies and new educational demands without remaining dependent on any single individual.
