At the outset, I would like to congratulate St. Mary’s University for hosting the 3rd International Conference on Cultural Studies. We are also happy to partner this activity this year, thus enabling us to strengthen our cooperation.
       "Cultural Studies" is an extremely appropriate theme when the collaboration is between international institutions. India has a rich cultural background and it can offer many learning platforms to the world. Likewise, we too, can gain from Philippines in this area.

As we observe technology making the world a global village, we realise the importance of "cross- cultural” learnings. There is culture of a nation, of an organization, of a family and of an individual. Besides, culture is ever- evolving! External adaptations and internal integrations lead to evolutions in culture, and hence the need for “cultural studies” will always remain relevant. Many sources reflect the current culture of an organization, and most notably, the people themselves.

 The driving forces that impact culture change are usually outside influences like disruptive technologies, economic or political uncertainties, new social movements, new markets or market forces, besides the internal influencers. However, at this particular juncture, the world has witnessed massive changes due to the pandemic, As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to evolve, so does the way we work. According to a survey by Gartner, 82% of companies plan to allow their employees to works remotely at least part of the time post pandemic. Thus predictions for 2023, with regards to the future of hybrid work, will be

a) A focus on building virtual connections and

b) Need for training and support.

 If culture is deliberate, then every organization will have a roadmap. It may be aimed at sustaining and reinforcing the existing culture; at integrating new people, processes, or technology into that culture or at renovating the culture in a small or large way. Today organizations experience continuous disruption, so their culture transformation must be ongoing. Hence post covid cultural changes and their study will surely reveal to be an interesting journey.

I look forward to being part of this journey and an enriching experience.

With best wishes and warm regards