– Aditi Maheshwari

IIM Indore has recently inked Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Babson College in Massachusetts and the University of Houston in Texas. This strategic move, aimed at enhancing the institute’s global stature, will focus on academic exchange, research, and grooming future leaders.

Babson College has partnered with IIM Indore to enhance students’ entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Professor Himanshu Rai, director, IIM Indore, and Prof. D.R. Widder, vice president of innovation at Babson College, formalised the MoU. 

On the occasion, Prof. Rai said, “Partnering with Babson College is a landmark achievement for us. Its global reputation for upskilling entrepreneurial talent aligns perfectly with our vision. This collaboration will enable us to conduct entrepreneurship boot camps, youth programmes, and executive education initiatives, creating invaluable opportunities for our students and faculty.”

Prof. Widder said, “IIM Indore’s reputation for academic excellence and its focus on nurturing global leaders make it an ideal partner for Babson College. We look forward to working together to drive innovation and empower future leaders.”

The MoU with the University of Houston further strengthens IIM Indore’s global network. Signed by Prof. Himanshu Rai and Prof. Diane Z. Chase, senior vice chancellor, vice president of academic affairs, and provost at the University of Houston, this collaboration aims to enhance regional understanding and foster academic excellence through joint programmes, research initiatives, and faculty development.

“Our collaboration with the University of Houston represents a significant step in strengthening ties between our two institutions and our respective countries. By integrating the University of Houston’s advanced resources and innovative practices, IIM Indore will elevate its international academic standing,” said Prof. Rai. 

Emphasising the potential of the collaboration, Prof. Chase said, “This MoU will deepen the regional understanding between the United States and India, and strengthen our academic collaboration in research, joint programs, and faculty development. We are excited about the prospects for exchanging faculty and students, which will enrich our academic environment and contribute to the global learning experiences of our community.”

Apart from these international collaborations, IIM Indore recently launched an ambitious expansion project, “ABHYUDAYA” on the occasion of Ram Navami (April 17). The Rs. 432 crore project will focus on the construction of a new academic block designed to foster a dynamic learning environment with versatile classroom layouts.

An undisputed frontrunner in management education, IIM Indore (estb.1996) presently hosts 1800 students across 8 flagship programmes, with tuition fees ranging from Rs. 20 lakh-Rs. 37 lakh per course. The institute became the second IIM in the country and among the 100 business schools worldwide to receive the the coveted Triple Crown Accreditation in 2019.

IIM Indore continues to push the boundaries of educational excellence with initiatives like ANVESHAN, a Center of Excellence inaugurated in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). ANVESHAN focuses on training political leadership for urban sanitation and waste management, offering programmes in public policy, urban governance, and change management.

Emphasising the institute’s dedication to sustainability and innovation, Dr. Himanshu Rai said, “The seamless integration of new infrastructure with existing campus structures enhances connectivity and accessibility. Utilization of recyclable materials and 1800 KW solar power generation reduces environmental impact. ABHYUDAYA aspires to be fully powered by solar energy, promoting sustainable growth and environmental responsibility.”

With 100 percent placement for its 594 students in 2022-24, the institute collaborates with over 70 universities worldwide as well as with IIT Indore. The institute’s focus on extracurricular activities, such as the Himalayan Outbound Program, and sustainability initiatives underscore its commitment to developing well-rounded leaders. 

Under Dr. Rai’s stewardship, IIM-Indore’s focus on innovation and educational excellence holds the promise of a transformative impact, reflecting the Madhya Pradesh government’s ambitious aspirations for the sector. 

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