Value-Based Leadership Takes Centre Stage at International Forum in Thailand

Prof. Dr. Prakash Divakaran, an educationist from Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, represented India at the International Leadership Award 2026 in Thailand, where he delivered the keynote address before an international gathering of leaders, educators and industry professionals.

Currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of Himalayan University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Prof. Dr. Divakaran used the international forum to highlight the growing importance of value-based leadership and the responsibility of leaders to create meaningful and lasting change in society.

International Forum Focuses on Value-Based Leadership

The event was held under the theme “Honour Leaders, Inspire Excellence, Shape the Future”, bringing together prominent personalities and professionals from different countries to discuss leadership, excellence and social responsibility.

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Divakaran stressed that leadership should not be defined solely by professional positions, titles or individual accomplishments. Instead, he argued that effective leadership should be assessed by the positive impact leaders create within their institutions and communities.

He emphasised that integrity, accountability and a commitment to social service are essential qualities for leaders navigating an increasingly complex global environment. According to him, leadership carries a responsibility to contribute to meaningful institutional and societal transformation rather than being limited to personal success.

Universities Have a Key Role in Developing Future Leaders

Prof. Dr. Divakaran also highlighted the important role of higher education institutions in preparing the next generation of responsible leaders. Universities, he noted, have the opportunity to shape not only students’ academic and professional abilities but also their values, sense of responsibility and understanding of their role in society. By encouraging ethical decision-making, collaboration and social responsibility, higher education institutions can contribute to developing leaders capable of addressing challenges beyond their immediate professional environments.

He further underlined the importance of international collaboration in higher education, noting that stronger connections between institutions and academic communities across countries can support knowledge exchange and contribute to broader leadership development.

International Leadership Award 2026 Brings Together Global Personalities

The programme was organised in collaboration with Phoenix Global Gold by D & G Holiday Thailand Co. Ltd., represented by Mr. Parvi Jaipinth, also known as Danny Bose. The event attracted several notable personalities from different fields. Among those attending was UK-based singer Dr. Nishi Malhotra, along with other leaders, educators and industry professionals.

The international gathering provided a platform for participants to recognise leadership achievements while discussing the values and responsibilities associated with effective leadership.

Recognition for Pune’s Education Sector

Prof. Dr. Divakaran’s participation and keynote address at the international forum have brought further recognition to Pune’s education community and Himalayan University. His representation of India at the Thailand-based event also highlights the growing involvement of Indian education leaders in international forums focused on leadership, academic cooperation and institutional development.

The organisers congratulated the award recipients and participants while announcing plans to hold the Thailand International Leadership Awards 2027, signalling the continuation of the platform as an international forum for recognising leadership and excellence.

Editor’s Note

The discussion around value-based leadership reflects a growing emphasis on the role of educational institutions in developing leaders who combine professional achievement with integrity, responsibility and social impact. International forums such as this can also provide opportunities for educators and institutions to strengthen cross-border dialogue and collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who represented India at the International Leadership Award 2026 in Thailand?

Prof. Dr. Prakash Divakaran represented India at the event and delivered the keynote address.

2. What was the theme of the International Leadership Award 2026?

The event was organised under the theme “Honour Leaders, Inspire Excellence, Shape the Future.”

3. What did Prof. Dr. Prakash Divakaran highlight in his keynote address?

He emphasised the importance of integrity, responsibility and social impact, arguing that leadership should be measured by the positive change created in society and institutions.

4. What role did Prof. Dr. Divakaran highlight for universities?

He highlighted the role of universities in nurturing responsible future leaders while strengthening international academic collaboration and knowledge exchange.

5. When are the Thailand International Leadership Awards expected to return?

The organisers announced plans for the Thailand International Leadership Awards 2027.