“We Are Deeply Committed To Wise Innovation”

What are the current thrust areas and infrastructure upgradations in the last few years at SPJIMR?

One of the current thrust areas at SPJIMR is the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation. We've taken significant steps to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among our students and provide them with the necessary resources and support to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.

In terms of infrastructure upgrades, SPJIMR has consistently invested in enhancing the campus facilities to provide a conducive learning environment for our students. Over the last few years, we've undertaken various initiatives to modernise our infrastructure, including the creation of state-of-the-art classrooms and learning spaces equipped with the latest technology. We've also expanded our library resources and digital infrastructure to support contemporary pedagogical methods.

Additionally, we've made efforts to ensure sustainability and eco-friendliness in our infrastructure development. This includes initiatives related to renewable energy and waste management to reduce our ecological footprint.

How will artificial intelligence (AI) impact management education and what is your institute's approach to disruptive technologies? 

AI's impact on management education is inevitable, with the potential to reshape how students learn and interact with the business world. As AI disrupts various industries, including education, SPJIMR recognises the need to adapt. From a pedagogical perspective, SPJIMR believes in focusing on the fundamentals that have stood the test of time. Rather than merely chasing technology, the institution emphasises critical thinking, the ability to connect dots in unique ways, and sound judgment as foundational skills. In an AI-driven landscape, these fundamental skills become even more crucial.

AI can transform how education is delivered. AI-driven tools can offer personalised learning experiences, providing students with tailored guidance and support. This, in turn, can enhance productivity and individualised attention. 

However, it's important to approach this transformation with a balanced perspective, as AI can be both a boon and a challenge. From a broader societal viewpoint, AI's impact on management education raises questions about the future role of business schools. As AI increasingly takes over routine tasks and even some creative work, management schools must consider how to prepare students for this changing landscape. As we navigate the AI-driven world, SPJIMR remains committed to delivering a relevant and forward-thinking curriculum, ensuring that students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this new environment.

What are the changing expectations of corporate world and industry and how are you meeting those expectations? 

Our goal at SPJIMR is to ensure that our graduates are well-prepared to handle complexity effortlessly. We place a strong emphasis on equipping them with essential skills like decision-making, critical thinking, empathy, and agility, which are crucial in this dynamic environment.

Our international internships offer students a global perspective, recognising the importance of a globalised economy where businesses are increasingly interconnected. These experiences, along with our focus on experiential learning, enable students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges, enhancing their problem-solving abilities.

Moreover, we collaborate closely with businesses to develop programmes and curricula that address the evolving needs of the corporate world. This includes courses on entrepreneurship and change management, designed to provide our graduates with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing business landscape.

In line with our broader mission, we are deeply committed to advancing ‘wise innovation’. This concept isn't just a single course; it's seamlessly woven throughout our entire curriculum. We're dedicated to shaping students into thoughtful, responsible, and visionary leaders who innovate wisely for a better world, always considering the well-being of all stakeholders.

Also, what are the changing aspirations of students, what experience do they want while at B-school and how are you fulfilling those aspirations? 

Students' aspirations have evolved over the years, and their expectations from a B-school experience are no exception. Today, students are looking for more than just academic knowledge; they seek a holistic and experiential education that aligns with their career goals and personal development. They desire a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. They seek global exposure to prepare for the interconnected world of business. At SPJIMR, we are dedicated to meeting these changing aspirations.

Our commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial mindset is reflected in initiatives like the FinNovate Accelerator. This unique programmeallows students to participate in the entrepreneurial process up close, working with startups and local incubators. It aligns with students' aspirations to be innovative and forward-thinking while gaining practical experience in the business world.

The Assessment and Development of Managerial and Administrative Potential (ADMAP) course hones their administrative capabilities, helping them develop a broader skillset that goes beyond traditional academic knowledge.

We actively involve students in community and societal issues through the Development of Corporate Citizenship (DoCC) initiative, aligning with their aspirations to contribute to the greater good. This initiative offers immersive social internships and meaningful interactions with the development sector, bridging the gap between business and society.

What are the biggest challenges before B-schools today and what solutions would you suggest?

In the rapidly changing landscape of business education, we face significant challenges, and our approach at SPJIMR is anchored in fostering wise innovation.

First and foremost, the breakneck speed of technological advancements is a formidable obstacle. Our response involves seamlessly integrating these changes into our curriculum to ensure our students are well-prepared for the ever-evolving digital business landscape.

Globalisation is another vital dimension to our approach. We emphasise global exposure and maintain a diverse, inclusive student body, equipping our graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in cross-cultural environments.

The evolving expectations of the corporate world are shaping the educational landscape. Companies now seek graduates who possess not only academic knowledge but also practical skills, adaptability, and a strong sense of social responsibility.

Sustainability and social responsibility have taken center stage, and we've integrated these vital themes into our programmes. Our goal is to instil in students a deep sense of ethical business practices and the significance of making a positive impact.

B-schools must continually innovate to remain relevant and attract top talent. Agility and adaptability are crucial for our success, and we actively foster a culture of innovation and wise innovation within our institution.

To address these challenges, we're pursuing a digital integration strategy, ensuring our students are well-versed in emerging technologies, and providing them with global exposure through international partnerships and internships. Our commitment to experiential learning equips students with practical skills.

By embracing these innovative solutions and our commitment to wise innovation, we aim to equip our students to excel in the ever-evolving business landscape, meeting the changing expectations of the corporate world.