On July 8, 2023, the Swiss School of Business Research (SSBR) celebrated a significant occasion at Barcelona’s Hotel Alimara, Spain, with its grand Graduation Ceremony. This event marked a pivotal moment for Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattnayak, a multifaceted academic and co-founder of digital initiatives such as The Digital Academy, Host Your Space, and OneOdisha.Tv. He received his well-deserved Doctor of Philosophy degree in Management during this ceremony. Under the mentorship of Dr. Karaoulanis Andreas, research director Dr. Steve Mallon, and his renowned scientist brother Dr. Kanhu Charan Pattnayak, Dr. Pattnayak’s research gained recognition from SSBR’s dean, Dr. Stephen Harrison, highlighting its significant contribution to intellectual inquiry.
On July 8, 2023, the Swiss School of Business Research (SSBR) celebrated a significant occasion at Barcelona’s Hotel Alimara, Spain, with its grand Graduation Ceremony. This event marked a pivotal moment for Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattnayak, a multifaceted academic and co-founder of digital initiatives such as The Digital Academy, Host Your Space, and OneOdisha.Tv. He received his well-deserved Doctor of Philosophy degree in Management during this ceremony. Under the mentorship of Dr. Karaoulanis Andreas, research director Dr. Steve Mallon, and his renowned scientist brother Dr. Kanhu Charan Pattnayak, Dr. Pattnayak’s research gained recognition from SSBR’s dean, Dr. Stephen Harrison, highlighting its significant contribution to intellectual inquiry.
Dr. Pattnayak’s groundbreaking study in vocational education, a key yet often undervalued sector for employment and societal progress, has garnered considerable attention. His research delved into how vocational education institutions in England adapted during the COVID-19 crisis, managing to not only survive but also prosper. This research offers fresh perspectives on the potential of these institutions.
His investigation focused on the pandemic’s impact on apprenticeships in England, proposing strategies for managing future crises. The research, involving extensive surveys with educational professionals, vividly outlined the challenges faced by apprentices, especially those below 19 years of age at Levels two and three. Despite these hurdles, his study recommends strategic responses like utilizing new technologies, remote learning, implementing safety measures, and equipping students adequately.
Dr. Pattnayak, who hails from the tranquil village of Kundei in India’s Nabarangpur district, has an inspiring academic journey. Raised by his parents, Shri Niranjan Pattnayak and Smt Bishnupriya Pattnayak, and supported by his wife, Swagatika Tripathy, and children, Adwiti and Sandeep, he epitomizes resilience and determination. His uncle, Shri Madan Mohan Singh Samant, influenced him towards a vegetarian lifestyle and philanthropy. Living in Orpington, London, he remains connected to his roots and is affiliated with prestigious bodies like the Royal Society of Arts and the Royal Society of Public Health.
Despite his upbringing in an area with high illiteracy and limited skill development opportunities, Dr. Pattnayak prevailed, thanks to the support of his siblings – Smt Ranjana, Shri Rajib Lochan, and Rashmita Pattnayak. His efforts in harnessing technology for educational advancement are significant globally. His story exemplifies education’s transformative impact, especially when bolstered by familial support and a strong will to make a difference.
Dr. Pattnayak’s findings are particularly relevant for India, where the large youth population faces high unemployment. He advocates transforming vocational education into resilient skill development centers to address this issue. By promoting resilient, skill-based education, he envisions a workforce prepared for future uncertainties.
In essence, Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattnayak’s influential research offers a potential paradigm shift in India’s vocational education and job market. His work extends beyond academic theory, paving the way for a more resilient, skilled, and employable workforce, a significant advancement for India and a model for the world, highlighting the importance of resilient education in fostering sustainable growth and development.
