April 2026 \ Interviews \ EDUCATION INDUSTRY IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA
“Universities Must Produce Talent”

In this conversation with India Empire, Tan Sri Joseph Adaikalam speaks about the evolution of the ISP model, the concept of “the world as a campus”, the importance of industry–academia partnerships, entrepreneurship, employability, and the future of universities in an age shaped by artificial intelligence, global competition and technological disruption.

PM Tun Dr. Mahathir recognises youth and senior entrepreneurs

How do you see the role of entrepreneurship evolving in the age of AI and automation?

Graduate unemployment is increasing in many parts of the world because there are more universities and more graduates than before. Graduates who rely only on academic qualifications will face increasing competition.

However, entrepreneurship has become easier today because of digital opportunities. Graduates can start businesses with relatively low capital. At Binary, we emphasise both entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship so that graduates can either start businesses or contribute innovatively within organisations.

Students from over 60 countries at an international culture performance at Binary

What is your long-term vision for Binary University and for Asian education?

For more than 40 years, Binary University has focused on producing talents rather than just graduates. We have constantly reinvented ourselves to remain relevant in the global education landscape.

Our vision remains the same: to create extraordinary talents and transform communities. But how we do this will continue to evolve as the world changes. Universities must continue to innovate and remain relevant to industry and society.

Traditional Models Challenged

Tan Sri Professor Joseph Adaikalam’s ideas challenge the traditional university model by placing industry, entrepreneurship and global exposure at the centre of education. His argument is simple but powerful: in a world shaped by technological disruption, artificial intelligence and global competition, universities can no longer operate in isolation from industry. Institutions that continue to produce graduates without industry relevance will struggle, while those that build ecosystems involving employers, entrepreneurs and global partners will define the future of higher education. As universities across Asia and the world rethink their role, models such as the one developed at Binary University may offer important lessons on how education can remain relevant in the 21st century.

 

 




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