Equal Access To Quality Education Is A Major Challenge: Prof Christian Hicks, Newcastle University

You are a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering Technology and a chartered engineer and have worked for eighteen years in the School of Mechanical Engineering. Having a good exposure to the engineering arena, how do you look at the engineering education landscape of the contemporary world?
Engineering is a very broad subject covering many diverse disciplines. Within each discipline there are numerous specialisations. Engineering degrees generally include: science, mathematics and engineering principles, design and creativity, appropriate laboratory skills, engineering analysis including the use of computational tools, engineering practice, including teamwork, project management and the use of equipment. Engineering students develop problem-solving skills that can be applied in a wide range of contexts. Structured tools and methods enable students to understand, analyse and solve engineering problems. Modern engineering emphasises an interdisciplinary approach. Digitalisation, including artificial intelligence and big data is transforming many aspects of engineering.  

You have spent nineteen years at Newcastle University Business School. How different do you find management education from other disciplines?
The purpose of a business and management degree is develop a critical understanding of organisations, cultures and structures within the wider economic and social context. It is a very broad-based subject that is diverse in terms of content, interdisciplinarity and perspectives. Typical programmes will include ethics responsibility and sustainability, markets and economies, marketing, consumer behaviour, finance and accounting, people and organisational behaviours, operations management, supply chains, statistics and data analysis, strategy and entrepreneurship.

It is increasingly important for students to develop and understanding of responsible leadership, including: ethical behaviours and the need to meet the expectations of multiple stakeholders; the increasing importance of environmental, social & economic sustainability and having a global perspective. A good degree programme will help students develop relevant skills and attributes to enhance their employability and help them become reflective, independent life-long learners.
 

How are operations management principles applied in real-world businesses?
Operations management is concerned with activities that produce goods or services. Typical topics include operations strategy, designing and managing facilities, capacity planning and management, process technology, the supply network, planning and control, quality, performance management and optimisation using operational research methods. The application of operations management principles enable organisations to increase their competitiveness through enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness. 
 

What role do you think technology plays in modern operations management practices?
Technology plays a crucial role in modern operations management practices, transforming how businesses operate and compete. The automation of repetitive tasks increases efficiency and reduces human error. This includes everything from manufacturing processes to administrative tasks. Advanced data analytics help managers make informed decisions by providing insights into operations, customer behaviour and market trends. Predictive analytics can forecast demand, optimise inventory and improve supply chain management. Technologies like RFID, GPS and blockchain enhance supply chain visibility and traceability, ensuring products are delivered on time and reducing the risk of fraud. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems integrate various business processes, such as finance, HR and production, into a single system, improving coordination and efficiency. Internet of Things (IoT) devices collect real-time data from equipment and products, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing downtime.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML can optimise operations by identifying patterns and making recommendations for improvements. They are used in areas like demand forecasting, quality control, and process optimization. Robotics are used in manufacturing, warehousing and even customer service to perform tasks more efficiently and accurately.
 

What are the major challenges faced by operations managers in today's globalised business environment?
Operations managers face several significant challenges in today’s globalised business environment. Global supply chains are complex and may involve multiple suppliers, logistics providers and different regulatory requirements in different countries. Global operations are subject to many risks including geopolitics and political instability, disasters and economic fluctuations. Labour, safety, environmental standards and trade regulations vary by country. Ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations can be challenging and time-consuming.

Operations managers need to ensure that technology investments align with business goals and provide a competitive advantage. There is increasing pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Operations managers must find ways to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency and minimise the environmental impact of their operations. Managing costs while maintaining quality and efficiency is a constant challenge. Global operations often involve higher transportation and logistics costs, which need to be carefully managed.

What according to you is the need of the hour for the education sector?
The curriculum needs to evolve to meet the demands of the modern world, which includes incorporating skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy and softer skills such as managing people. Ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality education is a major challenge, particularly when many institutions are constrained financially and have limited resource.  

Upasana .

BW Reporters The author works as a Senior Copy Editor with BW Businessworld and currently handles the education vertical. She has done her Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (NER Campus, Aizawl).