Chandigarh/ WAVES movement reach Chitkara International School, which Hosted the Much-Anticipated “GameForge: Uniting Minds, Unleashing Skills,”
A Groundbreaking Event Celebrating Gaming and Esports in Collaboration with Chitkara University, Indian Digital Gaming Society (IDGS), supported by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
Chandigarh : Chitkara International School was alive with energy as it hosted GameForge: Uniting Minds, Unleashing Skills, an innovative event that brought the fast-evolving world of gaming and esports into the spotlight. The event was hosted in collaboration with Chitkara University, Indian Digital Gaming Society (IDGS), supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The programme promoted World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) and highlighted innovate2educate handheld device design challenge under “Create in India” initiative. The Gameforge programme, with a focus on the expansive career opportunities within the industry, this event offered a one-of-a-kind opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the booming gaming landscape.The day began with a warm welcome from the school, followed by an insightful session by IDGS that set the tone for stimulating discussions to follow.
The inaugural session, Why Gaming is the Future: Opportunities for the Next Generation, was expertly chaired by Mr. Indrajit Ghosh, a prominent Mediapreneur and passionate advocate for the AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) education sector. The panel brought together industry giants, including Mr. Saurabh Shah, Head of People Operations at KRAFTON India, and Mr. Sanand Salil Mitra, Co-Founder & Managing Director of SporTech Innovation Lab Pvt Ltd. Their thought-provoking discussion explored the meteoric rise of gaming, its vast career potential, and how the next generation can harness this dynamic field for success.
Their conversation not only explored the rapid ascent of gaming and its broad career prospects but also delved into the intersection of traditional education with new-age technologies such as AR, VR, and gaming. The panel discussed how schools can integrate these cutting-edge tools to better prepare students for an ever-evolving future.
One of the key highlights of the session was a focus on the flourishing AVGC sector, which is brimming with exciting opportunities in animation, gaming, and visual effects. The panelists explained how education serves as a stepping stone for students to enter these high-demand fields, offering valuable insights into the skill sets required to succeed.
The discussion also shifted to the influence of sports technology, particularly data analytics and performance tracking, in shaping more realistic gaming experiences. The experts tackled common misconceptions about careers in gaming, offering clarity on how students can navigate and better understand the diverse career paths within the industry.
Looking to the future, the panelists shared their predictions for the gaming industry’s evolution over the next 5 to 10 years, highlighting key trends that will shape its trajectory. They also provided essential advice for students, emphasising the importance of balancing academics with industry experience. Additionally, they touched upon the critical subject of safety and responsible gaming, especially with the rise of gambling-based games, and discussed how measures can be put in place to ensure a secure and ethical gaming environment for all.
The session was further elevated by the presence of distinguished guests, including Ms. Manva Hanswadkar, Head of PR at KRAFTON India, Ms. Madhurima Maniyara from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Mr. P.K. Parthasarathy, Professor and Dean of the Chitkara Centre for Game Design and Immersive Technologies, and Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director of Chitkara International Schools, Chandigarh and Panchkula. Dr. Honey Chitkara, Associate Director of Chitkara International School, also graced the occasion. Their participation not only underscored the event’s significance but also reinforced their unwavering commitment to pioneering advancements in gaming education.
Following the sessions, a dynamic Q&A segment allowed attendees to engage directly with the experts, gaining invaluable insights into the future of gaming and its role in shaping the next generation.
The second session, Sports or Esports, provided a fascinating exploration of the convergence between traditional sports and the rapidly growing world of esports. Led by Mr. Sanand Salil Mitra, the session delved into how esports is opening new career avenues and attracting increasing interest from students eager to explore this vibrant field. The event culminated with another lively Q&A session and heartfelt closing remarks, leaving everyone feeling inspired, motivated, and eager to engage with the future of gaming and esports, with the intention of clear indication towards responsible gaming with a campaign of “Gaming4Good”.
Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director of Chitkara International Schools, Chandigarh and Panchkula, aptly remarked, “This event is a vital step in shaping the future of Generation Alpha. The gaming industry serves as a powerful tool in preparing students for tomorrow’s world, blending creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills that are essential in the digital age.”
Ms. Madhurima Maniyara, from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), also added, “The convergence of gaming, technology, and education opens up endless possibilities for our youth. Events like GameForge empower students to harness their skills and creativity, equipping them for a future where innovation and adaptability are key to success.”
Ms. Manva Hanswadkar, Head of PR at KRAFTON India, further emphasised, “Gaming is not just entertainment; it is an avenue for learning, growth, and creativity. Platforms like GameForge highlight how the gaming ecosystem is shaping the careers of tomorrow’s leaders, pushing boundaries and fostering innovation.”
GameForge: Uniting Minds, Unleashing Skills was more than just an event – it was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the boundless possibilities within the gaming industry. Chitkara International School continues to lead the charge in providing students with cutting-edge opportunities to explore and thrive in emerging fields, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly digital-first world.
