Hyderabad: PoPCoN at GITAM on June 26-27

The GITAM Deemed to be University School of Business will organize a two-day conference titled “PoPCoN 2026” — Professor of Practice Conference — on June 26 and 27, aimed at shaping the future of practice-based education in India.

Describing it as India’s first curated conference-program for practice academics and industry professionals, Dr. Joseph Paul, Chairperson – (EEP | MDP | Consulting), Centre for Business Engagement, GITAM School of Business, said in a press release on Thursday that PoPCoN 2026 marks the beginning of a national movement for Practice Academics in the country.

The conference will be graced by Prof. Arvind Sahay, Director of Management Development Institute Gurgaon and Independent Director at BirlaNu Ltd, Tata AIA, Matter, Brandscapes, and Vardhman, as the chief guest. Dr.EmandiSankara Rao, former Chairman of MDI Gurgaon and Independent Director, GMR Group, will deliver the keynote address as the chief speaker.

With India witnessing a growing demand for practice-integrated education, PoPCoN 2026 is designed to equip, connect, and empower professionals who bring industry expertise into academic spaces. The conference will feature a niche blend of practitioners and academicians through panel discussions, expert talks, keynote sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities.

Key themes of the conference include transitioning from industry to academia, integrating practitioner insights with academic rigor, contributing to case studies and caselets, exploring academic career opportunities, designing structured transition plans, and understanding the evolving role of Professors of Practice in higher education. The event will also provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and interaction between academicians and practitioners.

The conference is especially relevant for Professors of Practice, Assistant and Associate Professors of Practice, adjunct faculty, guest lecturers, entrepreneurs interested in teaching, professionals aspiring for academic careers, corporate trainers, consultants, as well as deans, directors, and recruiters from educational institutions.

The registration fee includes access to all sessions and workshops, curated learning materials, welcome kit, lunch and refreshments on both days, an exclusive networking dinner on June 26, certificate of participation, and deboarding goodies.

For further details regarding registration and fee structure, interested participants may contact AlekhyaMaram, PoPCoN Coordinator, at cbe@gitam.eduor call 96500 89575.