Conversations And Interactions

New-age IIMs like IIM Raipur possess a unique advantage over established IIMs by virtue of their position in the trajectory of institutional development. The older IIMs, through years of hard work, have meticulously laid the foundation and built a formidable brand image. The new IIMs, in this context, are bestowed with the privilege of leveraging this established brand to propel themselves forward. This advantage, however, doesn't merely manifest as an inheritance of reputation; it translates into a strategic edge. The second-generation IIMs have the flexibility and agility that larger, more established organisations often find challenging to emulate.
 
“Unlike traditional structures with ingrained bureaucracies, we can adopt unique differentiation strategies swiftly. The physical infrastructure of older IIMs can pose constraints. Limited space and resistance to change can hinder the implementation of innovative ideas. In contrast, new IIMs have the opportunity to create a conducive environment from the ground up. In essence, while we acknowledge and respect the legacy of older IIMs, the advantage lies in our ability to be nimble, innovative and unencumbered by historical baggage,” says Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur.

Industry Expectations
Speaking about the expectations of industry from management education, Kakani states, “We meet industry expectations from management education by actively engaging with industry stakeholders. We gain a deep understanding of their needs through continuous conversations and interactions. This insight allows us to integrate relevant content into our courses, pedagogy, workshops and seminars. For instance, when industry partners demanded sessions on public-private partnerships (PPP) or social infrastructure, we promptly organised workshops to address those specific needs.”
The journey of IIM Raipur has been nothing short of a dream. Thanks to Kakani’s predecessors (B.S. Sahay and Bharat Bhaskar), in its initial 12 years, the institute transitioned from a newborn to a robust and healthy infant. “Now, we find ourselves on the cusp of adolescence in the realm of higher education. While many institutions boast a history spanning centuries, we are merely 13-14 years old. Nurturing and mentoring are paramount during these early stages, akin to caring for a smaller baby,” says Kakani.

Being part of the founding team during this crucial period has offered insights into the challenges of establishing a higher education institution. The journey mirrors the careful handling required for an infant's growth. Despite being a newbie, IIM Raipur has emerged as the highest-ranked among second-generation IIMs and the most sought-after institution. Overcoming the challenges of being in an urbane region speaks volumes about the institution’s resilience and commitment.
“I feel fortunate and privileged to be associated with this journey, recognising the importance of careful nurturing and strategic mentorship as we continue to carve our path in higher education,” states Kakani.
 
Impact Of New-age Technologies
The impact of disruptive technologies on the campus has been two-fold. On one hand, there's a noticeable trend among the younger generation to rely on shortcuts like Chat GPT, AI and ML, often leading to a more mechanical approach to decision-making, bypassing critical thinking. However, the institute recognised the significance of these technologies and adopted a positive direction.Rather than resisting change, the institute has embraced disruptive technologies, integrating them into the ecosystem for constructive purposes. The institute employs these technologies for scheduling and streamlining processes for greater efficiency. One notable application is in online learning, where audio-visual materials enhance educational experiences beyond the limitations of traditional written content.
The institute leverages disruptive technologies to their full potential, acknowledging that when used thoughtfully, they have the power to convey information more effectively than traditional methods. This approach emphasises the positive integration of these technologies, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the educational objectives.

In today's aspirational society, the students' career aspirations reflect the dynamism of a developing nation. They are eager to capitalise on the opportunities of the current era and contribute to India's growth. Notably, there is a discernible shift towards startups, with students interested in internships and assignments in the startup ecosystem. For instance, startups like Eco Soul have welcomed interns from IIM Raipur, showcasing their willingness to engage in entrepreneurial endeavours.

Evolving Professional Landscape
Moreover, the modern generation exhibits remarkable flexibility, moving away from the traditional preference for jobs with fixed working hours. They are open to stretching themselves, embracing challenges and reaping the benefits of their efforts. This adaptability reflects a positive trend towards a more dynamic and responsive workforce, aligning with the evolving landscape of the professional world.

“I've observed a dynamic shift in students' aspirations reflecting the evolving landscape of the professional world. In today's aspirational society, students are keenly attuned to the opportunities presented by India's growth trajectory. The allure of contributing to the nation's development during this transformative era is palpable,” says Kakani.

A noteworthy trend is the changing focus on startups. While traditional corporate jobs continue to be sought after, students are interested in engaging with startups. This shift is marked by a willingness to explore internships and entrepreneurial opportunities within the startup ecosystem.In essence, the aspirations of our students reflect a desire for impactful contributions to a developing nation, and the increasing interest in startups signals a positive shift in the mindset of the modern business graduate.