August 20, 2025
Today, the way we learn, work, and grow is undergoing a rapid transformation.
Careers are no longer built on the weight of your college name or the shine of your first job. In today’s world, success belongs to those who adapt fast, sharpen the right skills, and embrace lifelong learning - no matter their age, location, or stage of life.
This evolving reality formed the heart of a recent masterclass hosted by Chandigarh University Online, featuring Ankur Warikoo, entrepreneur, mentor, author, and one of India’s most relatable career coaches.
Speaking to a diverse audience of students and working professionals, he shared hard-hitting insights on staying relevant in a fast-changing job market, making technology your ally, and taking ownership of your growth journey.
The core message was clear:
“Your growth can’t wait. Your degree should adapt to your life, not the other way around.”
The session explored how India’s young workforce can combine technology, transferable skills, and the flexibility of online learning to create careers that will thrive in the future of work.
And that is exactly what we’ll unpack in this blog. You’ll get a detailed recap of Ankur Warikoo’s most practical advice—from turning AI into your career partner and building a habit of lifelong learning, to picking degrees that keep your options open across industries.
Balancing a full-time job, family responsibilities, and higher studies can feel like an impossible task. For decades, professionals had to choose between work and academics. But today, online degrees have removed that limitation.
The “New India” economy demands continuous upskilling.
One of the most striking points from Ankur’s talk was about India’s population profile. With nearly 40% of its population being under 25, the country has one of the youngest workforces in the world. This demographic edge is expected to remain strong for decades, powering India’s growth story and shaping the future of work.
Bottom line: This combination of youth, technology, and energy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity if used wisely.
The last five years have completely reshaped work:
The pandemic accelerated remote and hybrid work.
AI tools like ChatGPT created a new wave of automation.
Industries shifted, roles evolved, and skill requirements changed overnight.
Ankur acknowledged the reality: AI will replace certain entry-level roles such as junior coders, analysts, designers, and even some legal or healthcare positions.
But there’s another side to the story: AI is creating new industries and job profiles that didn’t exist before.
Professionals can now create their own careers or businesses instead of waiting for traditional roles.
For decades, the measure of credibility was the institution you attended. Today, Ankur argued, that’s no longer enough.
“A shocking 43% of Indian graduates are considered unemployable by companies, because they lack practical skills.”
This is where online education excels—especially CU Online’s programs, which are designed for immediate application in real-world roles.
A major advantage of online education is the ability to earn while you learn. You don’t have to quit your job. You can apply new skills in real time. You build both experience and qualifications simultaneously.
This approach speeds up career growth and ensures that learning is both practical and theoretical.
One of Ankur’s strongest recommendations was to spend time with people who think differently from you.
When these perspectives meet, it challenges assumptions and sparks new ideas.
Ankur made a clear distinction that resonated with many:
Too often, people hide behind the label of “I’m shy” to avoid engaging with others. And the truth is about the fear of what others might think.
Takeaway: Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, you can still network and collaborate meaningfully. The goal is to meet people to learn from them instead of just seeking their approval.
When faced with challenges, there are two approaches:
Ankur urged learners to choose the first approach. The second, he warned, will hold you back no matter how many resources you have. Optimism, he added, is not blind faith but the belief that your consistent effort will lead to better outcomes.
When asked about how to select an online learning program, Ankur suggested reviewing three essential factors before committing:
Best practice: Choose degrees that build transferable skills, so you can adapt to multiple industries and career paths.
Chandigarh University Online combines academic credibility with industry relevance, offering:
This online learning model ensures you can customize your learning journey to match your career ambitions without putting your life on hold.
Here are some of the key takeaways from this masterclass that you should keep in mind:
Mr. Warikoo closed the session with a powerful reminder:
“You have every opportunity in front of you. Take responsibility for your growth. Be the student you wish to become, and success will follow.”
This closing thought tied perfectly into the masterclass’s core message. Growth in today’s professional world cannot wait. With flexible, credible online learning programs from Chandigarh University Online, you can gain the skills, confidence, and adaptability to stay ahead in industries that are constantly evolving.
And what matters the most is taking that first step—at your own pace, in your own way, and with a commitment to keep moving forward.