Blend Of Managerial Studies With Army Ethos Creates Unique Learning: VS Ranade, Army Institute Of Management, Kolkata

Army Institute of Management, Kolkata, established in 1997 by Army Welfare Education Society, New Delhi, is dedicated to providing high-quality management education to students with an army background. Director of the institute, Major General VS Ranade, highlights how the institute underlines the institution's commitment to meeting global business demands and emphasises its collaborations and partnerships with industry leaders to provide excellent industry opportunities for aspiring candidates. Edited excerpts from an exclusive interaction with BW Education:

Can you provide an overview of the mission and vision of the Army Institute of Management, Kolkata and how it sets the institute apart from other B-schools in India?

The Army Institute of Management, Kolkata (AIMK), is an integral part of the vision set forth by our ex-army chief many years ago. It was established under the Army Welfare Education Society with the aim of providing equal opportunities to the children of army personnel, including officers, JCOs and other ranks, both serving and retired. The nature of army life often results in children missing out on professional exposure and experiences outside of their academic journey. Our institute strives to bridge this gap and offer a comprehensive education that prepares students for the corporate world.

With a history spanning 25 years, the Army Institute of Management, Kolkata, has become a leading institution of excellence in business education. We offer a two-year fully residential MBA programme. The admission process for the program is through the Common Admission Test (CAT) conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management. Our curriculum encompasses a mix of academic and non-academic activities that aim to provide students with industry-ready skills and knowledge. We prioritise personality development alongside classroom teaching, as we believe that a well-rounded education includes both academic and non-academic aspects.

With over 25 years of academic excellence, how has AIMK evolved to meet the changing demands of the business and education landscape?

As an affiliated institute, we are bound by the syllabus prescribed by the university. However, this does not restrict us from considering industry requirements. Alongside covering the prescribed syllabus, we ensure that our teaching incorporates industry demands through daily instructions and engagement with corporate leaders. We have organised conferences and seminars, where industry captains share their insights and expectations from fresh MBA graduates. This interaction allows our students to gain a deeper understanding of industry expectations and prepares them for their future roles.

To keep pace with the evolving business landscape, we offer add-on courses and skill development programmes. These initiatives provide students with additional training and equip them with the necessary skills beyond the syllabus. By striking a balance between academic knowledge and practical skills, we aim to produce graduates who are well-prepared for the challenges of the corporate world.

How does the army background of the institute enrich the learning experience for students and create well-rounded professionals?

The army background of our institute plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experience and fostering well-rounded professionals. When recruiters visit our campus, they recognise the name 'Army Institute' and have certain expectations. Additionally, approximately 80 per cent of our students come from army backgrounds, which further emphasises the values of discipline, commitment and professionalism.

We infuse the curriculum with elements of army discipline, ensuring that students understand the importance of punctuality, adherence to dress codes and overall discipline. For instance, we start the day with a flag hoisting ceremony, which instills a sense of national pride and ownership. This emphasis on discipline begins at home as well, as we believe that a disciplined upbringing forms the foundation for success in academics and professional life.

The blend of managerial studies with the army ethos creates a unique learning environment that promotes discipline, commitment and professionalism. Our students graduate with not only academic knowledge but also a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to their work.

AIMK has collaborated with Procam Logistics to establish the Programme Centre of Excellence on logistics and supply chain. How does this partnership benefit the students and industry professionals in the field?

Our collaboration with Procam Logistics provides students and industry professionals with valuable opportunities in the field of logistics and supply chain management. The partnership has two primary benefits. Firstly, it allows us to engage in finding solutions for real-world logistical challenges. Students undertake projects that expose them to practical scenarios, helping them develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of industry practices. Faculty members guide and assist students throughout these projects, ensuring their learning experience is enriched.

Secondly, the partnership offers internships and potential employment opportunities for our students. By working with Procam Logistics, students gain firsthand experience in logistics management and are exposed to the corporate culture. This exposure prepares them for future roles in the industry and increases their employability. The collaboration creates a mutually beneficial environment where students gain practical knowledge and industry professionals can access a pool of talented individuals.

How does AIMK incorporate new technologies in the curriculum to stay at the forefront of management education?

We acknowledge the significance of new technologies in the corporate world and their impact on management practices. While we follow the university syllabus, which may not always include the latest technologies, we go beyond the prescribed curriculum to expose our students to emerging trends. Our faculty ensures that students receive instruction on AI, machine learning and other relevant subjects.

Furthermore, we invite experts from the industry to address our students, providing them with insights into the practical applications of these technologies. In addition to classroom learning, we plan to introduce add-on capability development capsules and courses specifically focused on emerging technologies. These initiatives will equip our students with the necessary skills to handle the ever-changing technological landscape.

How do you envision AIMK's future growth and development in the context of the rapidly changing global business environment?

AIMK is poised for significant growth and development in the coming years. Our students have excelled in various sectors, holding prestigious positions across the corporate world. We aim to continue providing a competitive platform for our students to thrive while nurturing their talents and potential.

To further expand our offerings, we are planning to introduce new courses that cater to evolving industry demands. These additional programs will provide our students with a wider exposure to different areas of business and strengthen their skill sets. By staying attuned to the needs of the corporate world and ensuring our students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead, we aim to maintain our position as a leading management institute.