Jack Of All Knowledge Ep 21: Ajay Shah on {x}kdr forum and why knowledge can't be produced on contract
Jun 22, 2024
Ajay Shah, a prominent figure involved with the {x}kdr forum, returns to discuss crucial topics in Indian development. He shares insights into how the forum identifies and tackles pressing challenges, emphasizing the need for innovative problem-solving. The conversation highlights the role of knowledge production amidst India's complex funding landscape, the critique of traditional academic limitations, and the significance of fostering enthusiasm and collaboration in intellectual culture. Shah also reflects on redefining success and the importance of personal growth.
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India Has A Missing Third Pillar Of Knowledge Production
- India lacks institutions focused on primary knowledge production separate from education and consulting roles.
- Shah categorizes Indian knowledge orgs into education, consulting, and a sparse third group that actually produces novel, long‑term research.
Use Contracts To Seed Long Term Curiosity Projects
- Maintain a research agenda that balances funded work with long-term curiosity-led projects.
- XKDR takes paid projects but continues exploring promising fields (e.g., alt data) beyond contract timelines to build capabilities.
Prioritize Capability Building Over Funder Fads
- Prioritize capability building when choosing research topics, not just short-term funding wins.
- XKDR leans into 'alt data'—satellite imagery and scraped datasets—to acquire strategic skills even when projects are only peripherally funded.