A new partnership aims to reshape music education in India by linking structured learning with recognized qualifications and career pathways, PNN Digital reported. Shankar Mahadevan Academy, the Media & Entertainment Skills Council (MESC) and the council’s flagship Indian Institute of Creative Skills (IICS) formalized a strategic collaboration during SANGAM 2026, the academy’s global music festival in Bengaluru.
The memorandum of understanding was exchanged in the presence of Padma Shri Shankar Mahadevan, MESC chairman and academy founder; Dr. Mohit Soni, MESC chief executive officer; and Sridhar Ranganathan, founder and CEO of Clood On Inc. and the academy, according to PNN Digital.
The partnership is designed to bridge creative education and professional careers while nurturing performers, composers, producers, educators and entrepreneurs, the report said. Mahadevan said the collaboration creates a structured pathway where passion meets professional excellence, empowering aspiring musicians to learn, perform, innovate and build careers.
Soni said the initiative combines the academy’s academic excellence with MESC’s national skilling framework and IICS infrastructure, preparing learners with industry-relevant competencies, recognized certifications and enhanced employability. Ranganathan added that the collaboration expands the academy’s vision of accessible, high-quality music education by connecting structured learning with qualifications and industry opportunities.
SANGAM brings together students, faculty, mentors and affiliate partners worldwide for performances, masterclasses and collaborative learning, PNN Digital reported.
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