Pune, August 3, 2026: Cambridge University Press & Assessment hosted the Cambridge English Leadership Conference (CELC) 2026 in Pune, convening principals, school leaders, and English educators to address how schools can equip learners for success in an increasingly AI-enabled world.
The conference focused on the role of learner-centred classrooms, effective assessment, data-driven feedback, and strong communication skills in supporting students’ academic and professional growth. Attendees discussed the importance of delivering AI with expert human oversight and embedding English language learning across the curriculum.
Survey reveals English as key employability skill
Findings from a recent Cambridge survey of nearly 1,900 college students across India were presented, revealing that almost all respondents consider English important for securing a good job. However, 30% identified English skills and confidence as a key barrier to employment, and 57% reported not feeling fully prepared for placements. Over 80% of students said they focus on technical or industry certifications, internships or real-world projects, and English language certification as add-ons to improve employability.
Educators at the event emphasised the role of schools in building language and communication skills that are essential for higher education and careers, particularly in India’s linguistically diverse professional landscape where English often serves as a common language across regions.
English proficiency for global opportunities
Pune’s status as an education hub, with renowned universities, research institutions, a technology ecosystem, and a growing Global Capability Centre (GCC) ecosystem, was highlighted as Maharashtra expands AI and digital learning initiatives. As organisations seek talent for internationally connected workplaces, strong English communication skills are seen as vital for enabling students to pursue global education and careers.
Focus on real-world communication and assessment
Arun Rajamani, Managing Director, South Asia, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, said, “As AI becomes part of everyday learning, the ability to communicate, analyse and think critically becomes even more important. Our research shows that students recognise the importance of English for future employment, yet many continue to face challenges with confidence and communication. This reinforces the need for schools to focus not only on teaching English as a subject, but on developing measurable language proficiency that supports academic success, employability and lifelong learning.”
Arunachalam TK, Country Head – English, South Asia, added, “Across South Asia, we are seeing growing demand from schools, parents and learners for internationally benchmarked evidence of language proficiency. The conversation is shifting from teaching English as a subject to developing real-world communication skills that students can use with confidence.”
Benchmarking and assessment frameworks
Participants discussed the importance of benchmarking English proficiency against internationally recognised standards. Cambridge English Qualifications, aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), were cited as providing benchmarks to help schools track and support learner development. Educators also highlighted the value of immersive English learning environments and robust assessment frameworks for clearer insights into learner progress and targeted intervention.
Cambridge English is a department of the University of Cambridge, providing English language exams and tests to over 5 million people annually in 130 countries. Cambridge Assessment English Exams are widely used in Indian schools, universities, and workplaces, and the organisation is a co-owner of IELTS alongside the British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia.
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