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In a move that signals both personal reinvention and a continued commitment to public service, former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has secured prestigious fellowships at two of the world's leading academic institutions: the University of Oxford and Stanford University.

Sunak's transition from Downing Street to academia underscores a broader trend of world leaders seeking intellectual sanctuaries to reflect, contribute, and recalibrate their influence. As the William C. Edwards Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution, Sunak is set to delve into critical global issues such as Trans-Atlantic relations, economic policy, technology, and global security challenges. His role will not only enrich academic discourse but also serve as a bridge between policymaking and scholarly research.

Sunak's affiliation with Stanford is not new; he earned his MBA from the university in 2006 as a Fulbright Scholar. This deep-rooted connection positions him uniquely to blend his political acumen with Stanford's cutting-edge research environment. Likewise, his undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) from Oxford equips him with a foundational understanding of the complex interplay between governance and economic frameworks.

These fellowships offer Sunak a platform to expand his perspectives beyond the immediacies of political life. More importantly, they provide an opportunity to influence future policymakers and thought leaders with insights shaped by his tenure as both Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Sunak’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by navigating the UK through unprecedented economic challenges, including the aftermath of Brexit and the global COVID-19 pandemic. His policy decisions, particularly in economic management and digital transformation, provide a wealth of knowledge that aligns with Stanford’s focus on innovation-driven governance.

At Oxford, Sunak's fellowship is expected to foster collaborative engagements with academics and policymakers, potentially influencing future economic strategies within the UK and beyond. His presence within these institutions signals a willingness to engage with evolving economic and geopolitical landscapes from a reflective, research-oriented perspective.

Sunak’s move to academia also reflects a broader trend among former world leaders opting to shape global discourse outside of political office. Figures such as former US President Barack Obama and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair have similarly transitioned into roles that allow them to wield influence beyond national borders.

For Sunak, these fellowships represent an opportunity to refine his global vision, contribute to policy-shaping discussions, and potentially lay the groundwork for a future return to public life—whether in the UK or on the global stage.

As Sunak embarks on this new chapter, his engagements at Oxford and Stanford will be closely watched. Whether his academic pursuits serve as a prelude to a larger political comeback or a long-term commitment to shaping policy from the outside, one thing is certain: his insights, honed by experience and academia, are likely to leave a lasting impact.

His journey serves as a reminder that leadership extends beyond elected office and that impactful contributions to society can be made in numerous ways, including through research, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas in academic circles.

Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has done what few public figures dare—spark a national conversation about one of India's most sensitive topics: language. By stating unequivocally that Hindi is not India’s national language but one among 22 officially recognized languages, Ashwin has reignited a debate that cuts to the heart of India's identity as a diverse, multilingual democracy.

Ashwin’s statement comes at a time when language politics continues to hover just beneath the surface of India's socio-political discourse. While Hindi has long held the position of being the most spoken language in the country, its role remains contentious in non-Hindi-speaking states, many of which view its promotion as a threat to regional languages and cultures.

Unsurprisingly, Ashwin’s comments have polarized social media. On one side are those hailing his remarks as a much-needed acknowledgment of India’s linguistic plurality. On the other, critics see his words as undermining the potential of Hindi to act as a unifying national language.

What both sides seem to miss is the nuance: India’s linguistic diversity is not a barrier to unity—it is a strength. Ashwin’s words underline this reality and remind us that promoting one language as superior over others risks fracturing the very fabric of our federal democracy.

India’s Constitution made a deliberate choice not to designate a national language, recognizing the potential pitfalls of such a move in a linguistically diverse country. Instead, it gave Hindi and English the status of official languages, alongside 21 other recognized tongues.

This debate, however, isn’t just about semantics; it is about inclusivity. Every time this issue resurfaces, it forces us to examine whether we are doing enough to protect the linguistic and cultural heritage of all Indian states, not just those that speak Hindi.

Ashwin’s remarks are a reminder that the language debate is not just a political issue—it’s a question of identity and respect. For India to remain a truly united nation, it must embrace its linguistic diversity rather than seek to homogenize it. He has thrown the ball into the public’s court. Whether we engage thoughtfully or reduce it to another Twitter slugfest will reveal much about our collective maturity as a nation.

As the Indian government moves to finalize its proposed data rules, businesses and individuals alike are grappling with the potential implications of these regulations. The new rules, which aim to strengthen data governance and protection in India, have sparked intense debate among stakeholders. In this insight piece, we will delve into the key aspects of the proposed data rules and explore their potential impact on businesses and individuals.

Data Localization: A Double-Edged Sword?

One of the most contentious aspects of the proposed data rules is the requirement for data localization. This means that companies operating in India will be required to store sensitive data within the country. While the government argues that this is necessary for national security and data protection, critics warn that it could lead to increased costs and complexity for businesses.

The Risks of Backdoor Entry

Another concern surrounding the proposed data rules is the risk of "backdoor entry" into sensitive information. This refers to the potential for governments and other entities to access personal data without the individual's consent. While IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has assured that the new rules will not allow for "backdoor entry," critics remain skeptical.

The Impact on Businesses

The proposed data rules have significant implications for businesses operating in India. Companies will need to invest in new infrastructure and technologies to comply with the data localization requirements. This could lead to increased costs and complexity, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The Future of Data Governance in India

As the Indian government moves to finalize the proposed data rules, it is clear that the future of data governance in India will be shaped by these regulations. While the rules aim to strengthen data protection and governance, they also raise important questions about individual privacy and the role of government in regulating data.

The Economic Times proudly presents the AI Legal Summit 2025, a landmark event poised to redefine the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the legal profession. Scheduled for March 27, 2025, the summit will convene leading minds from law, technology, and academia to discuss how AI is transforming the legal landscape.

AI has already begun revolutionizing legal practices—from automating document review to reshaping how cases are analyzed and resolved. The summit aims to delve into the opportunities and challenges this technology brings to the legal sector, exploring its potential to enhance efficiency, compliance, and decision-making while addressing concerns around ethics, privacy, and accountability.

Summit Agenda Highlights

The AI Legal Summit 2025 offers a comprehensive agenda featuring:

• Compliance and Ethics: Insights into navigating AI-driven legal tools while maintaining ethical standards.
• Intellectual Property and Disputes: Discussions on how AI impacts IP law and dispute resolution.
• Workplace Transformation: Examining AI’s role in redefining legal workflows, team structures, and client engagement.

An Esteemed Lineup of Speakers

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear from a distinguished roster of speakers, including:

• Senior Partners: Insights from law firm leaders at the forefront of AI integration.
• Barristers: Perspectives on how AI is shaping courtroom strategies.
• Tech Innovators: Groundbreaking advancements from pioneers driving AI innovation in legal technology.

This diverse lineup ensures a holistic exploration of AI’s role across the legal spectrum, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Who Should Attend?

The summit is designed for:

• Legal professionals keen to understand AI’s implications for their practice.
• Tech industry leaders interested in collaborating with the legal sector.
• Academics and students exploring the confluence of law and technology.

Join the Conversation

Registration for the AI Legal Summit 2025 is now open. Don’t miss this chance to network with industry leaders, gain actionable insights, and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving legal-tech landscape.

For more details and registration, visit the Economic Times event portal. Secure your spot today and be part of the dialogue shaping the future of law and AI.

Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University in Vijayapura has made history by appointing Dr. Akkai Padmashali, a celebrated trans rights activist, as a guest lecturer in its social work department.

This groundbreaking decision establishes Dr. Padmashali as one of the pioneering trans educators in a mainstream Indian university, marking a transformative moment for diversity in higher education. She is set to teach postgraduate students, weaving her rich experiences and advocacy into the academic fabric.

"I am honored to be part of an institution that values inclusion and progress," Dr. Padmashali said. "This role is not just about teaching; it’s about representing the possibilities for countless others from marginalized communities to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions."

The university’s Vice-Chancellor shared her excitement about the appointment, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to fostering equality. "This decision underscores our dedication to creating a diverse and supportive learning environment. We believe in the power of representation to drive societal change," she stated.

Dr. Padmashali's appointment has resonated across India, earning widespread acclaim from LGBTQ+ advocates and rights organizations. Many see it as a pivotal step forward for the trans community, highlighting the necessity of representation in shaping perceptions and policies.

A trailblazer in her own right, Dr. Padmashali’s journey exemplifies resilience and courage. From challenging societal norms to spearheading movements for trans rights, her advocacy has earned her national recognition. Her role as an educator is expected to inspire not only her students but also institutions across the country to rethink inclusivity in education.

Activists have hailed this decision as a potential turning point, predicting it will encourage more universities to embrace diverse faculty members and create safe spaces for marginalized communities. "Dr. Padmashali’s appointment is a message to the nation: inclusion isn’t just a concept; it’s actionable and transformative," said one prominent LGBTQ+ rights leader.

Beyond her academic responsibilities, Dr. Padmashali hopes to initiate discussions on gender equity, identity, and intersectionality, empowering students to approach societal issues with empathy and awareness. Her presence promises to bring a new dimension to the social work curriculum, blending advocacy with education.

This significant move by Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University extends beyond the boundaries of its campus. It serves as a beacon of progress, challenging entrenched stereotypes and paving the way for a more inclusive India.

The appointment is a bold reminder that change is possible, one step at a time, and that education is the cornerstone of a society that truly values equality and diversity.

The world of work is undergoing a seismic shift. The gig economy, characterized by freelance, contract, and temporary roles, is reshaping traditional employment. With an estimated 36% of the U.S. workforce engaged in gig work and this trend spreading globally, the education system faces a pressing challenge: preparing students not for jobs of the past but for a dynamic, ever-evolving future.

The allure of the gig economy lies in its flexibility, offering workers autonomy over their schedules and projects. However, this freedom comes with its demands—adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 roles, gig work often requires individuals to juggle multiple skill sets, manage their own businesses, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Current education systems, rooted in industrial-age principles, often prioritize rote learning and technical skills. Yet, the gig economy requires more. Employers today seek individuals who are not only digitally literate but also possess strong soft skills such as communication, creativity, and problem-solving. Additionally, the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new tools or industries is becoming non-negotiable. Unfortunately, many graduates enter the workforce ill-prepared for this reality.

What Needs to Change?
To bridge this gap, education systems must undergo a paradigm shift:

Embrace Digital Literacy: As technology continues to dominate industries, curricula must integrate skills like data analysis, coding, and proficiency in digital tools.
Foster Lifelong Learning: Instilling a growth mindset early on ensures students see learning as a continuous journey. Resources for upskilling and reskilling should be readily available.
Prioritize Hands-On Experience: Practical exposure through internships, real-world projects, and collaborations can build confidence and relevant skills.
Encourage Entrepreneurship: By nurturing entrepreneurial thinking, students are empowered to create their own opportunities rather than waiting for traditional employment.
A Glimpse into the Future
Automation and artificial intelligence are already reshaping industries, and the gig economy will continue to expand. While these changes may disrupt traditional job markets, they also offer unprecedented opportunities. For education systems, this is a chance to innovate—to move beyond rigid structures and embrace flexibility and adaptability in teaching methods.

At the heart of this transformation lies the individual student. Imagine a young person in a rural community, once limited by geography, now accessing global opportunities through digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills. Or a mid-career professional using online resources to pivot into a new field. These are the stories education systems can help craft if they rise to the occasion.

The gig economy is more than a trend; it’s the future. Education must evolve to ensure that students are not only prepared but empowered to succeed in this dynamic landscape. By rethinking curricula, emphasizing lifelong learning, and fostering practical skills, we can equip learners to thrive in a world that demands agility and innovation.