Curtin University has appointed Dr Jonathan Pillai as the new Humanities Dean of Learning Futures, to drive innovation in teaching and learning and ensure graduates are career-ready in a rapidly changing job-market.
With over 17 years experience in higher education, Dr Pillai is a respected leader in academic innovation, curriculum design and industry collaboration, with a specialised focus on bridging the gap between learning and workforce needs.
Dr Pillai, an ethnic Indian-Ceylonese who received a Master of Education from the University of Sheffield, currently co-leads the Animation and Game Programme at Curtin University and previously served as Deputy Director – Academic and Skills Development at Temasek Polytechnic in Singapore.
Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Blythe said Dr Pillai’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for Curtin’s Learning Futures portfolio.
“Higher education is evolving quickly and Dr Pillai’s leadership will be key in shaping learning experiences that are innovative, practical and industry connected,” Professor Blythe said.
Dr Pillai said he was honoured to step into the Dean of Learning Futures role and support Curtin’s mission to create modern, future-focused learning experiences that prepare students for success.
“I’m committed to ensuring students graduate with the skills, creativity and adaptability to thrive in the future workforce,” Dr Pillai said.
“Through collaboration with industry and academic leaders, I believe we can shape a learning future that is hands-on, inclusive and globally relevant for all our students.”
Dr Pillai’s contributions at Curtin have been recognised through multiple awards, including the Curtin Innovation Award and the Innovation in Pedagogy Award.
For more information about Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities, visit here.
