Purpose-Driven Leadership Begins on Campus: XLRI Delhi-NCR Director on Nurturing Ethical, Future-Ready Managers

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir highlights how institute integrates values, technology, ethics, and leadership development to nurture responsible and future ready professionals.

In this interview with Shiksha.com, Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir, Director of XLRI Delhi-NCR discusses how this campus is transforming student experience while adapting to today’s rapidly evolving global business landscape. He highlights how institute integrates values, technology, ethics, and leadership development to nurture responsible and future ready professionals.

Q. What is your vision for shaping student experience at XLRI Delhi-NCR?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: At XLRI Delhi-NCR campus we have  chance to shape a campus culture that reflects both rich legacy of XLRI and aspiration of a new generation. We want to create a learning environment that nurtures excellence and encourages reflection. Once a students enters our campus we want them to feel they are part of something purposeful, where they can grow not only as professionals but as an individual.

Q. XLRI has a strong legacy of values based education. How do you ensure students grow ethically and socially?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: Our values are not just spoken, they are lived. We place ethics and social responsibility at heart of everything we do. We give opportunities for students to engage with real world challenges, reflect on their decisions, and contribute meaningfully to world around them. We help students grow into leaders who are not only competent but also deeply compassionate and socially conscious.

Q. What skills should management students focus on to grow in a rapidly changing business landscape shaped by AI?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: This is a time of incredible opportunity for those who are curious, quick learner and willing to change themselves. I encourage students to embrace both technological fluency and human-centered thinking. Skills like data analytics, digital strategy, and AI understanding become even more powerful when paired with emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, cross-cultural collaboration, and the readiness to question everything in this “age of illusion.” Those who integrate these dimensions will be ready to lead with clarity, courage, and creativity.

Q. How your institute promotes holistic student development?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: We believe that education must go beyond the classroom to be truly transformative. We offer students a vibrant environment where they can develop leadership through student-led initiatives, contribute to society through community engagement, and care for their own well-being through wellness programs. We create space for dialogue, collaboration, and inner growth, because nurturing the whole person is central to our mission.

Q. As a teacher of business communication, what common gaps do you observe in students’ communicative competence?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: We help students go beyond technical proficiency to develop communicative presence, how they listen empathetically, engage meaningfully, and build trust. Through interactive learning, simulations, and constructive feedback, we support students in becoming confident communicators.

Q. What role does campus play in nurturing socially responsible leaders?

Fr. Dr. K.S. Casimir: Our campus is a living space where values are not only taught but experienced. Every interaction, every initiative, every decision is an opportunity to practice responsible leadership. We foster a culture where excellence and ethics go hand in hand. Through community partnerships, reflective practices, and value-centric programs, we empower students to lead with integrity and use their success as a platform for positive impact.