IIM Directors Chart A Course For Tech-driven Leadership

Bhupendra Paintola Dec 25, 2023

In a thought-provoking panel discussion at the BW B School Summit & Awards 2023, prominent directors from esteemed institutions shed light on the transformative role of leadership and technology in the realm of education.

Vinita Sahay, Director, IIM Bodh Gaya, emphasised the pivotal role of technology in shaping the growth trajectory of their institution. Despite initial resistance, the integration of technology acted as a catalyst, propelling them to the fourth position among 21 IIMs. This success, achieved without government support, highlights the dynamic and fast-paced approach of IIM Bodh Gaya, she added.

Pawan Kumar Singh, Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli, reflected on the profound impact of Covid, prompting a more extensive embrace of technology. Encouraging his team to overcome hesitancy, Singh stressed the need to view technology adoption as a long-term strategy, urging institutions not to wait for crises to drive innovation.

Dr Himadri Das, Director General, International Management Institute, underscored the importance of flexibility in education. The institute successfully transformed classrooms into hybrid setups, blending physical and virtual learning seamlessly. Dr Das emphasised the integration of industry practitioners into the curriculum, enabled by technology, fostering a data-driven approach even in traditionally creative fields.

Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Nagpur, focussed on active industry engagement and the broader societal impact of education. The institute's curriculum, developed in collaboration with industry experts, aims to provide students with a holistic understanding, he stated. Metri emphasised the importance of integrating societal challenges, showcasing the institution's commitment to a well-rounded education.

Nagarajan Ramamoorthy, Director, IIM Amritsar, discussed leadership in challenging environments. The institute prioritises converting challenges into opportunities and emphasises community immersion for students to comprehend societal challenges. Innovation and collaboration are key elements in realising the institution's vision of global connectivity and responsibility.

Dharam Paul Goyal, Director, IIM Shillong, shared the vision of becoming a global school through collaboration and exchange programmes. Goyal highlighted the importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing future, emphasising sustainability and innovation.

Vivek Suneja, Head and Dean, Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi, stressed the importance of efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. FMS faces challenges within the bureaucratic structure but benefits from being part of a larger university system. Suneja advocated for sensitising students to sustainable lifestyles and continuous improvement through experimentation and deep conversations.

In conclusion, the panel discussion showcased the pivotal role of leadership and technology in shaping the future of education, emphasising adaptability, innovation and a holistic approach. These insights provide a roadmap for institutions aiming to navigate the evolving landscape of education successfully.