London – The WDC, UK, is pleased to announce that St. Jude’s Public School & Junior College, Kotagiri, has become the first school in India to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with International Skill Development Corporation (ISDC) to implement the Future Creative Minds Program. This pioneering initiative will equip students with design thinking, innovation, and emerging technology skills, preparing them for success in the evolving creative economy.

The Future Creative Minds Program seamlessly integrates design thinking and innovation into school education, fostering problem-solving abilities, creativity, and adaptability. The curriculum also incorporates sustainability and emerging technologies such as AI, data analytics, and robotics, ensuring students are well-prepared for modern careers.

With the global creative economy expected to grow by 40% in the next decade and 85% of future jobs requiring creative thinking and technological fluency, this program ensures students develop industry-relevant skills. Participants will gain global showcase opportunities, expert-led workshops, international design challenges, and a prestigious WDC certification, significantly enhancing their academic and career prospects.

A key feature of the program includes real-world project-based learning, where students will identify and address a local community challenge aligned with one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Using design thinking, innovation frameworks, and emerging technologies, students will develop practical solutions that contribute to sustainable global progress.

As part of the event, Mr. Philip Thomas presented the World Design Council Approved Learning Partner Certificate to Mr. Samjith Dhanarajan, recognizing the school’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in education.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Philip Thomas, Country Head, World Design Council, India, highlighted the program’s transformative impact:
"By integrating design thinking and emerging technologies into education, we are nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. St. Jude’s Public School’s pioneering role in adopting this initiative reflects its commitment to excellence and future-ready learning."

Mr. Tom Joseph, Executive Director, ISDC, added:
"This collaboration between ISDC and St. Jude’s Public School is a milestone in bringing global creative skilling to Indian schools. It is not just about preparing students for careers but equipping them with the mindset and tools to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving world."

Mr. Samjith Dhanarajan, Executive Director, St. Jude’s Public School, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "We are honored to be the first school in India to introduce the World Design Council’s Global Creative Skilling Program in partnership with ISDC. Our commitment has always been to provide students with cutting-edge learning opportunities that shape their future."

This partnership marks a significant step in transforming school education, offering students global exposure, hands-on learning experiences, expert-led masterclasses, and WDC certification, providing them with a competitive edge in their academic and professional journeys.