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There is something remarkably special about an online learning community, coming together in person, not just to network, but to truly celebrate. PANORAMA 2026 conducted on June 13, 2026 was one such moment for Online Manipal learners. A chance to meet the faces behind the screens, showcase talents, share laughs, and build connections that go beyond the classroom.
At Online Manipal, learner engagement isn’t just a value we talk about, but it’s something we actively invest in. And PANORAMA is one of the most visible expressions of that. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the Online Manipal calendar, cherished not just for the energy it brings, but for the lasting memories it creates.
A Day of Inspiration and Meaningful Connections
The event started around 9.00 AM, in Dr TMA Pai Halls, KMC Manipal, where all the learners from a variety of programs gathered for registration and networking. For many, it was the first opportunity to meet classmates, faculty members, and mentors in person after months of interacting online.
There was a lot of excitement amongst the learners as we could see them exchanging stories, clicking photographs and excited to have a conversation with their mentors!
PANORAMA 2026 was an inspiring blend of learning, networking, and meaningful conversations; a true back-to-campus experience! Truly, a proud learner of MAHE online.
– Smriti Bhat, Batch 8, MBA Operations.
Setting the Stage for a Day of Learning and Engagement
The formal proceedings commenced with the inauguration ceremony, followed by a welcome address by Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director, Directorate of Online Education, MAHE. He talked about how MAHE Online has transformed into a worldwide learning community with over 15,000 learners in 60+ countries and emphasized the institution’s dedication to making education more inclusive, equitable, and lifelong.
The event also received wonderful insights from the Chief Guest, Dr Sharath Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, and the Guest of Honor, Dr Chandrakala C. B. Joint Director, MIT, MAHE.
Another highlight of the event was the launch of ‘Abhivyakti’, a cultural club for online learners. This is an initiative to nurture creativity, celebrate talent, and build a genuinely high-spirited community that engages beyond academics. It is the platform where your talent can find its voice!
Voices of Visionaries at PANORAMA 2026
Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director, Directorate of Online Education:
Welcoming learners to Panorama 2026, Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director, MAHE Online, described the event as “much more than an event” and “a celebration of connection, learning and belonging.” Highlighting the significance of the campus immersion experience, he noted that Panorama has evolved into “a much-awaited tradition that strengthens our sense of community and belonging,” and expressed his hope that learners would leave with “new knowledge and memorable experiences” along with “a strong sense of pride and belongingness as members of the MAHE family.”
Dr Sharath Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE:
Addressing the learners, Dr Sharath Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, emphasized the importance of campus immersion in helping online learners explore future opportunities and strengthen their connection with the institution. Reflecting on the legacy of Dr T.M.A. Pai, he highlighted the transformative power of education in shaping communities and improving lives. “This is what we want you to look at the campus and see what are the future opportunities for you in this campus,” he remarked.
Dr Chandrakala C. B. Joint Director, MIT, MAHE:
Dr Chandrakala C.B., Joint Director, MIT, MAHE, noted that “education is fundamentally about people, their aspirations, perseverance and their determination to go for creating a better future through learning.” She emphasized that “at its heart, online education is driven by a very simple but powerful belief that quality education should be accessible to learners wherever they are,” and added that “what inspires me is the fact that behind every learner is a unique story”, from students beginning their journey to working professionals, parents, and those who prove that “learning has no age limit.” She further concluded by saying “learning is not a destination, but it is a lifelong journey.
Future of Work: How AI, Data, and Digital Transformation are Reshaping Careers
Another highly anticipated segment of PANORAMA 2026 was the panel discussion on the Future of Work. Scheduled from 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM, the session brought together distinguished leaders from academia and industry for a thought-provoking exchange of ideas on the evolving workplace and the skills required to thrive in it.
The session commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Shreevatsa Gudi, Course Coordinator (Management), followed by a keynote presentation from Mr. Raghav Gupta, Head of Education – India & Asia Pacific, OpenAI.
He shared his vision of how AI will impact education in the future through an enlightening presentation. He urged students to view AI as a partner in learning, and at the same time, they should build up their judgment, creativity, and experiment skills.
The panel discussion that followed was expertly moderated by Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, who guided the conversation through a range of perspectives on the future of work in an AI-driven world.
The esteemed panel featured:
- Ms. Lakshmi Devi Prakash, Vice President, Applied AI ML Lead, JP Morgan
- Dr Ganesh Prasad, Director – IT, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)
- Mr. Mansij Majumder, Head – Corporate Human Resources, Manipal Education & Medical Group (MEMG)
- Mr. Rohit Castellino, HR Business Partner Leader, Elsevier Technology India
- Dr Kartikeya Bolar Pramoda, Professor, TA Pai Management Institute, MAHE.
Together, they explored how artificial intelligence, data, and digital transformation are redefining workplaces and reshaping career pathways for professionals across industries.
In Mr. Raghav Gupta’s presentation, he mentions, “AI is rapidly becoming embedded in workflows across industries, transforming how work is done and how skills are applied. The real question is how we help students not just use AI for productivity but build with it and actively shape the future it is creating.”
Key Takeaways from the Panel Discussion
- AI is transforming jobs, not just replacing them. New opportunities are emerging alongside changing job roles.
- According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025:
- 170 million new jobs are expected to be created globally.
- 90 million jobs are expected to be displaced or reshaped.
- This results in a net gain of approximately 78 million jobs.
- All three trends are happening simultaneously: jobs are being replaced, reshaped, and newly created.
- An overwhelming majority of software developers, up to 85%, are incorporating AI into their work, which is resulting in faster and more efficient work output.
- AI might be able to generate thousands of lines of code in a matter of seconds, yet human skills are indispensable in areas such as architectural design, decision-making, and coming up with innovations.
- More companies are showing a willingness to accept AI-assisted hiring methods, a sign of the rising need for AI literacy in the working world.
- The panel pointed out that, in the future, workspaces might consist of smaller teams with higher productivity, which is possible due to AI-driven workflows.
- With the rise of AI, human capabilities like creativity, critical thinking, judgment skills, and understanding of emotions will be highly valued even more.
- Mutually the panel raised the point of individuals who master the art of effectively collaborating with AI may find themselves in a more advantageous position in a world where work is changing continuously.
Celebrating Talent and Creativity
The stage came alive with the most vibrant and engaging performances by the students. A lot of singing, dancing and fun, the campus was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of celebration.
The celebrations were made even more exciting by a colorful ramp walk and a lively group dance from Team DOE, which really highlighted the spirit and talents of the community. To give the event a cultural flavor, Dr Suraj Francis Noronha and Dr Aruna Doreen Manezes thrilled everyone with their duet in Baila, a popular folk music dance that is characterized by its great rhythms and happy vibes; the audience had a great time.
Exploring the MAHE Campus
Only seen through videos and photographs, students were beyond excited to walk down the halls of MAHE campus in the mentor-guided campus tour. With a first-hand experience of the campus, learners were extremely satisfied to end their day with a lot of smiles and memories!
Learners Speak
“Being part of MAHE online has been a very positive learning experience. It has helped me balance my personal commitments while continuing studies in a meaningful way. I’m really looking forward to meeting the faculty, attending the events, and connecting with my batchmates”.
Sr Anna Mary J, MBA Healthcare
“Currently working as a programmer while pursuing my MSc, the flexibility of this program has been a great advantage for me. The recorded sessions are highly organized, the quality is excellent, and the overall experience has been very engaging and enriching. I also never expected initiatives like Panorama to be so well-structured and professionally conducted”.
Sumanth B, MSc Data Science
PANORAMA 2026: More Than an Event, a Celebration of Community
As we know, Online Manipal continues to stand out amongst the students because we continuously try to reshape the online learning experience. Moments like PANORAMA 2026 is one such initiative we started and now it reflects the power of great connections beyond the digital space.
The event brought learners together in an environment of engagement, inspiration, and community, leaving behind memories that extend far beyond a single day and happy hearts!
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