A career guidance and mentoring session on “Career Navigation and Planning – “Future-Ready Careers in the Era of AI and NEP 2020” was conducted on 8 August 2026 at Essence International School, under the guidance of Directors Mr. Vijay Menon and Dr. Mrs. Hema Menon. The programme was conducted in the gracious presence of Principal Mrs. Beena Menon, Quality Co-ordinator Mrs. Jayashri Sastri, Vice-principals Mrs. Arpana Wilson and Mrs. Shashiprabha Suryawanshi. The session aimed to help students understand various career opportunities, identify their strengths and skills, and make informed decisions about their future.
The session was addressed by Mr. Mukul Anil Chimote, a Certified Career Analyst, Career Counsellor, Soft Skills Trainer and Director of Astute Career Counselling Academy, Nagpur. With more than 20 years of experience in career counselling and mentoring, he has guided students from Classes 9 to 11 in identifying suitable career pathways. His expertise includes psychometric and career analysis, career mentoring, university admissions, test preparation, soft-skills development and leadership trainings.
Mr. Chimote provided valuable insights into career navigation, career assessment, future-ready skills, emerging career opportunities, Artificial Intelligence and NEP 2020. During his speech, he highlighted that there are more than 1,300+ career opportunities available today, encouraging students to explore diverse career options rather than limiting themselves to a few conventional professions. He encouraged students to understand their interests, personality, abilities and skills before making academic and career choices. He also highlighted the importance of communication, creativity, empathy, adaptability and continuous learning.
Mr. Chimote explained that career selection should be based on self-awareness, aptitude, interests and skills, rather than simply following popular career choices. He discussed important aspects of career assessment such as personality analysis, career-interest identification, skill identification, educational pathways, parental support and financial planning.
The session also focused on NEP 2020, highlighting flexible learning, skill-based education and multiple pathways. Students were encouraged to explore careers beyond conventional choices and identify opportunities that match their individual strengths.
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on future careers was another important topic. Students were made aware that while some routine tasks may be automated, new careers will emerge. Therefore, skills such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, empathy and adaptability will become increasingly important.
Various career options in Science, Commerce, Arts and Humanities and vocational fields were discussed. Science-related options included engineering, technology, architecture, data and computing, defence, aviation, research, medical and health-related fields. Commerce options included finance, banking, insurance and law.
The importance of communication skills, confidence, personality development and participation in activities such as music, dance and sports were also emphasised. Students were encouraged to maintain a healthy balance between studies, hobbies, screen time and personal well-being.
The session was informative, engaging and highly beneficial for the students. It broadened their understanding of career possibilities and encouraged them to make thoughtful decisions based on their interests, abilities and future aspirations.
The session concluded with the important message:
“Know yourself, explore your possibilities, develop your skills and prepare yourself for the future.”