Category Archives: Education

Imarticus Learning Launches ISFB, India’s First School of Finance & Business

Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Imarticus Learning, India’s leading professional education company, today announced the launch of the Imarticus School of Finance & Business (ISFB), the country’s first dedicated institution focused on bridging the persistent quality gap in finance education. Backed by a ₹25 crore venture fund in partnership with BLinC Invest, ISFB will empower entrepreneurial students with seed capital from day one to build and scale their ventures. For aspirants aiming for global B-schools, ISFB’s collaboration with Ambitio opens pathways to elite institutions such as NYU, Cambridge, MIT, and Carnegie Mellon, leveraging AI-powered admissions tools and mentorship from top admissions experts.

India produces over one million commerce graduates every year, yet less than 10 percent transition into sector-relevant finance roles. The issue is not supply, but quality. Recruiters consistently report that only one in ten candidates they meet is job-ready, with over 80 percent lacking the applied skills employers demand. Outdated curricula, rote-led education, and limited exposure to global practices have left graduates holding degrees but not careers. This is happening at a time when demand for finance talent is set to touch 16 million new jobs by 2030 across banking, investment, insurance, asset management, and fintech. Globally, finance education is racing ahead, embedding AI, fintech, and ESG at its core, while India lags.

ISFB has been established to close this gap by creating an institution where finance education is not just theoretical, but applied, practical, and benchmarked against international standards.

At the heart of ISFB is its proprietary R.E.A.L. pedagogy (Reflect, Experience, Apply, Learn), a framework where academic depth and industry exposure constantly reinforce each other. Reflection happens in classrooms led by industry leaders, where students examine real-world problems and decision frameworks. Experience comes through global and domestic immersions such as a week in Singapore with SP Jain School of Global Management, bootcamps at IIM Visakhapatnam, and grassroots finance explorations through the Explore India Mission. Application is built into the journey with M&A negotiations, Big4-led competitions, and simulation-driven trading labs that pressure test every concept. Learning is anchored throughout by academic leaders from IIMs, ISB, Ivy League schools, and leading economists, ensuring every concept is grounded in research and rigor.

The School launches with a three-year Bachelors in Finance & Business and will soon add an 11-month PG in Global Finance & AI. Both programmes are structured to deliver deep specialisations in fintech, financial analysis, and global accounting, with integrated CFA and ACCA pathways.

Industry integration is a defining feature of ISFB. Partnerships with Ambit (Investment Banking), Motilal Oswal (Asset & Wealth Management), and Cognizant (Digital Finance & AI) ensure students graduate with the exact skills employers demand.

Under the leadership of Joy Parekh, CEO of the Imarticus School of Finance and Business (ISFB), the institution is guided by a distinguished Advisory Council, chaired by Nikhil Barshikar (Founder & CEO, Imarticus Learning), and co-chaired by Ajay Srinivasan (Financial Services Veteran). Council brings together leaders such as Ajay Rajan (Country Head of Transaction Banking and New Economy Business, Yes Bank), Ravindra Pandey (Dy MD & CIO, State Bank of India), Garima Batra (MD and Partner, BCG), , Vikas Khattar (MD, Ambit), Dr. Avantika Tomar (Partner, EY Parthenon), Rajat Mathur (ex-MD, Morgan Stanley), along with policy experts, fintech innovators, and global academic leaders.

Beyond academics, ISFB equips students with career pathways at a scale rarely seen in Indian education. Preparation is shaped by 200+ industry experts who bring the boardroom into the classroom, and a hiring network of 1,000+ companies that translates training into real jobs. AI-driven mock interviews and masterclasses ensure graduates are job-wanted, not just job-ready. Structured internships with BFSI firms, fintechs, VC funds, and startup incubators give learners hands-on experience that often converts into full-time roles. Mentorship is woven into the journey, with 15+ personal mentors and access to an active alumni community that includes leaders at Goldman Sachs, PwC, and BlackRock. A ₹25 crore venture fund with BLinC Invest supports entrepreneurial ambitions, providing seed capital for student-led startups from day one. And for those who dream of attending global B-schools, ISFB’s partnership with Ambitio opens pathways to elite institutions such as NYU, Cambridge, MIT, and Carnegie Mellon, with AI-powered admissions tools and mentorship from top admissions officers.

The credibility of ISFB is rooted in Imarticus Learning’s decade-long legacy in finance education, having trained over 7,50,000 learners, placed 50,000+ professionals into Fortune 500 companies, and powered by a network of 3,500 hiring partners worldwide. Today, one in five investment bankers in India is an Imarticus alumnus. This placement record and employer trust provide ISFB with a strong foundation that few institutions can claim.

The campus, located at Hiranandani Knowledge Park, Powai, Mumbai, places students at the heart of India’s financial capital, surrounded by banks, fintechs, regulators, and investors. With smart classrooms, simulation labs, deal studios, ESG forums, and fintech clubs, the campus is designed to provide not only academic learning but also a professional environment that supports innovation and leadership.

Nikhil Barshikar, Founder of Imarticus Learning and Chairman of the Advisory Council, ISFB, said: “India doesn’t suffer from a shortage of graduates. It suffers from a shortage of graduates who are prepared for the future of finance. Outdated curricula and degree-led education no longer serve the needs of an industry that AI, digital lending, ESG, and globalisation are reshaping. ISFB has been created to address this gap. We’ve built an institution where practice is as important as theory, where global exposure is integral, and where industry sits inside the classroom. Our vision is simple: to give students a launchpad into careers that are globally relevant, future-focused, and real-world ready.”

Ajay Srinivasan( Executive and former CEO of Aditya Birla Capital Ltd), Co-Chair of ISFB’s Advisory Council, added: “Having spent over three decades helping to build large financial institutions, I know how critical talent is to driving and sustaining growth. ISFB is a bold response to a gap that exists. By bringing together top talent from academia and industry, it aims to create a new generation of professionals who can help shape the future of finance, both in India and on the world stage.”

With its cutting-edge pedagogy, strong industry partnerships, and the credibility of Imarticus’ legacy, ISFB represents a new chapter in higher education. More than a school, it is an institution built to prepare India’s next generation of finance professionals for the opportunities ahead.

7 Workforce Shifts Redesigning Professional Development in 2025

India, 6th october 2025:The workplace today is rapidly changing. Professionals today are working in a dynamic world driven by technology, open spaces, and changing employer expectations. To stay ahead, one has to be adaptable, learn on the go, and have skills that are future-proof. Following are seven shifts revolutionizing professional development in 2025:

1. Remote-First and Hybrid Work Models

Remote and hybrid workspaces are quickly becoming the standard. Workers require digital collaboration abilities, self-management, and familiarity with virtual tools to thrive in distributed settings.

2. Upskilling and Continuous Learning

The skills half-life is decreasing, so lifelong learning is no longer optional. Working professionals are acquiring certifications and training in AI, cloud computing, data analysis, and other new technologies.

3. Data-Driven Decision Making

Businesses are turning more to data to inform strategy. Those workers with the ability to interpret between the lines and communicate insights to business decision-making are in high demand.

4. Prioritize Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence

Other than technical abilities, communication abilities, leadership abilities, and flexibility are essential. Those who can manage change, influence groups, and navigate conflict are likely to move ahead.

5. Gig Economy and Project-Based Work

Short-term employment, freelancing, and temporary contracts are increasing. Professionals are compensating by acquiring skills, developing portfolios, and mastering the art of selling themselves.

6. Using AI and Automation in Day-to-Day Work

AI technology and automation are making processes more efficient in industries. Employees who know how to use technology to do things better are at an advantage.

7. Customized Career Paths

Old-fashioned career staircases are being replaced with elastic, customized development routes. The experts are talking about cross-functional transitions, micro-credentials, and competence-based progress.

The workplace in 2025 is that of flexibility, acceptance of technology, and constant skill development. Experts who are willing to adapt to this transformation and invest in formal learning on websites such as Intellipaat, UpGrad, and Simplilearn will have the best chance for long-term growth and success.

Honda Promotes Road Safety in Vijayapura, Karnataka

Instilling safer road habits: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India brings road safety awareness to Vijayapura, Karnataka

Vijayapura, 29th September 2025: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has taken its road safety awareness campaign to Vijayapura, engaging students from St. Joseph’s School and Chinmayi English Medium School. With participation from over 2300 students, the initiative aimed at strengthening the culture of responsible road use through structured training and interactive learning.

The programme emphasized the importance of early education in shaping future riders and citizens. Students were introduced to practical aspects of road safety including correct helmet usage, adherence to traffic signals, pedestrian discipline and anticipation of risk in real-world situations. HMSI encouraged participants to view safety not as a regulation but a life practice that protects individuals and communities alike.

Through such campaigns, HMSI is working to address one of the pressing needs of commuting- instilling a mindset of responsibility on the road among the youth. The objective goes beyond awareness; it is about nurturing long-term behavioral change where informed choices become routine. By engaging schools and colleges, HMSI ensures that young voices carry the message further into homes and communities, creating a multiplier effect that extends well beyond the immediate participants.

Vijayapura’s engagement is a part of HMSI’s broader effort to integrate road safety education into society at multiple levels. Each activity adds strength to HMSI’s ongoing efforts to make safety education accessible, relatable and impactful, to shape a generation that places responsibility at the centre of mobility. Such ongoing initiatives serve as a reminder that thoughtful actions on the road go beyond self-protection and contribute to the safety of everyone around them.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR commitment towards Road Safety:

In 2021, Honda announced its global vision statement for the year 2050 where it will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles. In India HMSI is working in line with this vision and the Government of India direction of reducing fatalities to half by 2030. 

One critical aspect of achieving this goal is developing a positive mindset towards road safety in our children by the year 2030 and continuing to educate them thereafter. Road safety education at schools and colleges is not only to create awareness but to introduce a safety culture in young minds and transform them to be the road safety ambassadors. It empowers future generations to become responsible and significantly contribute to a safer society. 

HMSI wants to be a company that Society wants to exist and is strongly focusing on spreading Road safety awareness to all sections of society with unique ideas catering to each segment from school kids to corporates and society at large.

HMSI’s set of skilled safety instructors conduct daily programs at our 10 adopted traffic training parks (TTP) across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) to make road safety education accessible to every part of society, and the initiative has already reached over 10 million Indians. HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through: 

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquettes.

1. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.
2. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.
3. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

HMSI also recently launched its innovative digital road safety learning platform, E-Gurukul, this
E-Gurukul platform offers training modules tailored for three specific age groups from 5 years till 18 years ensuring a comprehensive approach towards road safety. Currently the modules are available in multiple languages like Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and English—to ensure inclusivity and regional relevance and E-Gurukul can be accessed at egurukul.honda.hmsi.in. The platform supports live streaming or downloading, and multilingual modules to ensure accessibility across diverse regions. The launch of E-Gurukul is part of HMSI’s ongoing efforts to empower children, educators, and dealers to champion safe road practices. The initiative will expand to cover schools in every state, promoting road safety education tailored to different age groups.

Solo Art Exhibition – Mishran : A Medley of Mediums

New Delhi, 26th September 2025: Artist Prenita Dutt will present her 18^th solo exhibition, “Mishran: A Medley of Mediums,” at the Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre, from October 1–5, 2025, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

“Mishran: A Medley of Mediums,” meaning a harmonious blend, brings together an evocative body of Prenita’s masterful exploration of paintings, ceramics and sculptures in fiberglass, bronze, and stone. Guided by her deep connection to nature, the exhibition transforms organic forms—seeds, branches, flowers, and stones—into a meditative dialogue between the ephemeral and the enduring. Each piece reflects the artist’s philosophy, transforming seeds, branches, flowers, clay, and stone into artworks that reflect memory, fragility, and resilience.

Describing the diversity of art forms on display Prenita Dutt explains “Nature is my constant. Whether on Paper, Canvas, Clay, or Stone, its shapes, textures, and rhythms guide my work. Each medium is a doorway to the same truth—that creation is a conversation between self and universe.”

The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on memory, healing, and the universal patterns of the natural world.

Winpe Welcomes Sheffield Haworth as Knowledge Partner for ProClub Mentorship Program

New Delhi, 25 September 2025: Winpe, a leading platform advocating gender diversity in investing, has announced Sheffield Haworth as the Knowledge Partner for its flagship Winpe ProClub Mentorship Program, aiming to help expand the careers of high-potential women in private equity, venture capital, and their portfolio companies.

Winpe ProClub is a year-long, one-on-one mentorship initiative that pairs women professionals with senior leaders from top private equity and venture capital firms. With five cohorts completed and the sixth underway, Winpe ProClub has mentored 59 women professionals through 29 senior leaders across 46 leading firms. Nearly 76% of participants have reported tangible career progression, underscoring the program’s ability to create impact across the investing ecosystem.

Nupur Garg, Founder, Winpe, said, “At Winpe, our mission has always been to create real, lasting pathways for women to lead. We are pleased to welcome Sheffield Haworth as a strategic partner in our journey to transform the investing landscape as we position more women for roles of influence in private equity and venture capital. We look forward to working together in developing an ecosystem where diversity is intrinsic, anticipated, and celebrated.”

“At Sheffield Haworth, we are deeply committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in the investing industry. Partnering with Winpe allows us to bring our expertise and advisory experience to a program that is truly shaping the future. Together, we will create pathways for talented women to thrive as leaders,” said Avaneesh Raghuvanshi, Head, Financial Services and Private Equity Practice – India, Sheffield Haworth. Through this partnership, Sheffield Haworth brings its global reach and leadership expertise to help guide the next generation of women leaders in finance.

ProClub stands out as a mentorship platform that builds lasting trust and adapts to the changing careers of its mentees. The program offers valuable insights into growth strategies, helps enhance influence in key decision-making groups, and boosts confidence to tackle challenging career shifts. Since its inception in October 2020, Winpe ProClub has built a strong ecosystem of women founders and investment professionals and secured mentorship from senior partners, board directors, CXOs, and heads of investments at leading Indian and global firms. The initiative redefines support for women aiming at leadership roles across the investment ecosystem through high-impact, long-term mentorship, strategic partnerships, and ecosystem integration. Notable women leaders like Anshul Jain, (Managing Director, Lighthouse Advisors), Gurnoor Kaur (SVP, TA Associates) and Vineeta Singh (CEO, SUGAR Cosmetics) are from past cohorts and have benefited from the program at crucial points in their careers.

Japan IT Week Autumn 2025 to Feature MEET Korea and Global IT Exhibitors

TOKYO, JAPAN, 25th september 2025: — Japan IT Week Autumn 2025, the country’s leading exhibition for IT and Digital Transformation (DX), is set to open its doors from October 22 to 24, at Makuhari Messe, Japan. The three-day event, organised by RX Japan, will bring together a global audience of industry professionals to explore the latest in IT, digital transformation, digital marketing, and e-commerce solutions.

Building on the Momentum of Spring 2025

The upcoming Autumn edition builds on the strong results of Japan IT Week Spring 2025, which welcomed 57,802 visitors and hosted 1,033 exhibitors, including 296 international companies from 38 countries. These figures underscore the event’s role as a global hub for IT innovation and cross-border partnerships.

Special Initiative: MEET KOREA

A highlight of the Autumn 2025 edition will be MEET KOREA, a special initiative commemorating the 60th anniversary of Japan–Korea diplomatic relations. Through a series of sub-events, MEET KOREA aims to support Korean companies entering the Japanese market and foster deeper collaboration in IT between the two countries.

“We’re excited to introduce MEET Korea this year,” stated Mr. Kenji Okabe, Japan IT Week Show Director. “It’s a great opportunity for Japanese and Korean companies to connect, share ideas, and build partnerships that drive the future of IT. We believe it will add tremendous value to the show and the industry as a whole.”

MEET Korea will feature a variety of engaging programs and opportunities, including networking programs that connect Japanese and Korean businesses; showcases of Korean IT solutions for the Japanese market; special conferences that highlight Korea’s latest IT trends; matchmaking counters inside the venue for direct business connections; and a stamp rally and other engaging programs that allow visitors to experience Korea’s advanced technologies and services firsthand.

A World-Class Exhibitor Lineup

Japan IT Week Autumn 2025 will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, from established tech giants to emerging innovators. While the final list will be announced closer to the event, attendees can expect to see leading names such as Fujitsu, SAP Japan, KEYENCE, NEC, Nikon, Uber Japan, and more.

Four Specialised Shows Under One Roof

Japan IT Week Autumn 2025 will once again be part of four co-located trade shows, offering visitors a comprehensive overview of digital transformation trends and solutions:

• Japan IT Week – System development, IoT, cybersecurity, and IT talent solutions 
• Japan DX Week – Digital transformation, AI, and business automation 
• Sales & Digital Marketing Week – Marketing and sales technology innovations 
• E-commerce & Store Week – Solutions for e-commerce, logistics, and retail operations

In addition to this comprehensive showcase, these concurrent events will also be hosting a series of conference sessions and lecture programs—accessible to both exhibitors and visitors across the four shows and their respective specialised sub-shows.

Be Part of Japan’s Leading IT and DX (digital transformation) Event

Japan IT Week Autumn 2025 invites both industry professionals to take part in the three-day exhibition. Exhibitors can connect with decision-makers, explore new markets, and showcase their innovations on a global stage, while visitors will gain firsthand access to the latest technologies, expert insights, and valuable networking opportunities.

IICT Launches India’s First On-Demand Introduction to AI-Powered AVGC Course

India, 22nd september 2025:In a landmark step toward merging creativity with technology, the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), a Government of India initiative, has announced the launch of its first-ever “Introduction to AI-Powered AVGC” course. This one-month program, set to begin on September 26, 2025, aims to equip learners with foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in Artificial Intelligence as applied across Animation, VFX, Gaming, Comics, and Live-Action content production.

Vishwas Deoskar, CEO of IICT said, “Though we already offer long-term programs in AI and creative technologies, the overwhelming demand and frequent queries from learners prompted us to introduce this short-term course. AI is no longer a future concept, it’s actively reshaping how stories are told, games are designed, and visual effects are created. This course is not just about tools; it’s about preparing the next generation of creators for the AI-driven future of media and entertainment.”

The program has been carefully curated for fresh graduates, AVGC students, and career switchers seeking to transition into the rapidly expanding creative economy. Over the course of four weeks, participants will be introduced to AI applications in areas such as character animation, comics, VFX, and immersive media workflows. Along with gaining exposure to AI-generated assets for live action, animation, and VR experiences, learners will benefit from industry-driven masterclasses and practical sessions led by veteran professionals from leading studios and production houses.

Every participant will also receive a certification from IICT upon successful completion of the course.

Classes will be offered in two flexible formats. The on-campus program will be held at the IICT Mumbai campus on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with four-hour sessions each day, at a fee of INR9,900. For those who prefer remote learning, online live sessions will be conducted on the same days for two hours per day, at a fee of INR4,900.

With limited seats available for this first batch, IICT has already seen strong interest and registrations are filling quickly, underscoring the growing demand for AI-focused creative training in India. As the media and entertainment sector continues to embrace technology at a rapid pace, this program offers a timely opportunity for learners to step into the future of storytelling and production with confidence.

World Alzheimer’s Day Sun, 21 Sept, 2025

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 Highlights the Urgency of Early Diagnosis and Supportive Care

Mumbai, September 22, 2025: World Alzheimer’s Day, observed globally on September 21 each year, serves as an important reminder of the growing burden of Alzheimer’s disease and the urgent need for collective action. This year’s theme emphasises the importance of early awareness, timely diagnosis, and building strong community support systems for individuals and families affected by the condition. By focusing on these aspects, the campaign seeks to ensure that families, carers, and healthcare systems are better equipped to face the challenges of dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that slowly destroys memory, cognitive abilities, and the capacity to carry out simple daily activities. It remains the most common cause of dementia worldwide and affects millions of families, often placing a tremendous emotional and physical strain on caregivers. With the number of cases steadily rising in India as well as across the globe, experts stress that timely medical intervention and greater awareness are key to managing the disease more effectively.

Sharing his perspective on the occasion, Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said, “Alzheimer’s is not simply about age-related memory loss—it is a serious neurological condition that needs to be identified early. Too often, families dismiss the initial symptoms, which include frequent forgetfulness, disorientation, or difficulty in managing everyday tasks. Recognising these signs early allows us to intervene in time, provide therapies that may slow progression, and prepare caregivers to offer better support. On World Alzheimer’s Day, it is vital that we strengthen public awareness so more people seek help without fear or stigma.”

The 2025 theme also underscores the importance of moving beyond stigma. Misconceptions and denial often delay medical consultations, preventing patients from receiving timely diagnosis and appropriate care. Improving access to diagnostic facilities, treatment options, and community-based support services is essential to reducing the burden on patients and their families. Collaborative efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and society at large are crucial in creating an environment where both patients and carers feel acknowledged and supported.

World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 is more than a day of observance—it is a call to action. By raising awareness, encouraging early medical attention, and building a culture of community support, society can take meaningful steps toward easing the burden of Alzheimer’s disease while ensuring dignity and compassion for those living with it.

IIM Sambalpur Inaugurates First-Ever Batch of B.S. Programme

22 Sept, 2025; Sambalpur: Following the announcement made in May 2025, IIM Sambalpur launched these two cutting-edge programmes in Delhi, and has now welcomed the inaugural batch of its first-ever B.S. Programme in Data Science & AI and B.S. Programme in Management & Public Policy at the Sambalpur campus in Odisha.

In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, IIM Sambalpur has launched its two cutting-edge new undergraduate programmes: “Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy” and “Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” in May 2025. The course curriculum is aligned with the world’s top universities such as MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and Carnegie Mellon University, all of which offer BS programs with similar names.

The inaugural batch welcomed 178 students across the two programmes, 88 in Data Science & AI and 90 in Management & Public Policy. Representing more than 20 states of India, including Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Lakshadweep, the batch reflects strong regional diversity. The B.S. in Data Science & AI programme has enrolled 69 male and 19 female students, while the B.S. in Management & Public Policy has 51 male and 39 female students, ensuring a healthy gender balance.

Admission Process

Admissions were made through JEE (Main) 2025 for Data Science & AI, with the highest admitted rank being 44,645, and through CUET (UG) 2025 for Management & Public Policy, where the top scorers achieved a 99.80 percentile. The academic credentials of the cohort are equally impressive, with an average Class 12th score of 90.5% for Data Science & AI students and 88.2% for those in Management & Public Policy.

Ratnesh Jha, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network India graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Amit Sareen, Managing Director, Accenture and Anjan A, Vice President, North Trust were present as the Guests of honour. Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur along with faculty and students were also present during the event.

The event also featured expert speaker sessions in which the esteemed speakers were Vivek Agarwal, Country Director, Tony Blair Institute; Harpreet Singh, Head –Counterparty Credit Risk, BFSI Sector; Gangadhar Yasam, Head of IT Strategy, Ford Motor Company; Divay Pranav, Business Strategy & Partnerships, Hyundai Motors; Arpit Bajpai, Co-Founder, Neurosensum, were present as key note speakers in the event.

During his inaugural address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “This is a historic step for IIM Sambalpur. By launching these B.S. programmes, we are investing in young minds who will become leaders in technology, policy, and society. These programmes will not only prepare students with academic excellence but also instil in them the values of integrity, innovation, and responsibility towards nation-building. Anchored in the core values of Integrity and Innovation, the programmes provides strong roots in data analysis, critical reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making. The cross-functional courses are designed to develop responsible leaders who can address intricate societal and industrial challenges with innovation, compassion, and a global perspective. This degree program is pioneering and will be adopted by other top management institutes.”

Apart from that, Prof. Jaiswal advised students and said, “Students need to nurture four kinds of intelligence for holistic growth. First is IQ, which sharpens the intellect. Second is EQ, which teaches them to manage their emotions effectively. Third is PQ, which emphasizes the importance of good health, physical fitness, and preferring naturopathy. And Finally, SQ – the spiritual quotient – which helps them reflect on the deeper purpose of life”.

While addressing the students, Chief Guest, Ratnesh Jha, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network, said, “Congratulation to IIM Sambalpur for excellent NIRF rankings 2025 and for successful inauguration of the first batch of the B.S. Programme. IIM Sambalpur continues to be a hub of creativity and inspiration, opening new avenues for the younger generation. The four-year B.S. Programme holds immense potential to transform students into accomplished professional, well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation. He further emphasized that, while striving for academic excellence, ratings and rankings, it is equally important not to overlook spiritual growth and physical well-being. He added that students must focus on the four Cs, as the absence of any one of them makes progress incomplete and less fulfilling”.

The Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy programme is designed to meet national managerial aspirations in terms of Sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and community-led development. This programme aims to equip a new generation of change-makers to close the gap between policy and practice at the grassroots level.

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is focused towards developing India’s digital capability and global competitiveness. The programme, co-designed with industry leaders builds future ready skill set among young students and encourages the use of ethical AI, reaffirming the institution’s pledge to innovation with integrity.

The inaugural marks a new chapter in IIM Sambalpur’s journey to shape responsible leaders with a balance of academic rigor, innovation, and social responsibility. Notably, IIM Sambalpur is the first IIM to offer admissions to its B.S. in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence programme through IIT JEE Main, and to its B.S. in Management & Public Policy programme through CUET, both prestigious national-level entrance exams conducted by the National Testing Agency.

IIM Sambalpur has reached a significant milestone this year, climbing 16 positions in the NIRF ranking 2025. Speaking on the institute’s accreditation journey, Prof. Soumya Guha Deb, Dean (Ranking & Accreditation), highlighted the strategic initiatives and sustained efforts that have contributed to this remarkable achievement.

Prof. Diwahar S Nadar and Prof. Rohit Gupta introduced the B.S. Programmes. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Diptiranjan Mahapatra, Dean, (Academics), while the vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Diwahar S Nadar.