The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur has organised an Immersion Programme for students enrolled in its Dual-Degree Programme, marking another important step in its global academic initiatives. The programme aims to help students gain hands-on learning experiences and exposure to diverse cultural and business environments through a blend of classroom learning and international collaboration.
I chose to write about this because such initiatives show how Indian management institutes are expanding their reach globally and preparing students for leadership in a rapidly changing world. The dual-degree structure not only provides access to global education standards but also allows Indian students to experience international business practices without losing touch with local realities. It’s an encouraging sign for India’s higher education system, showing that institutes like IIM Sambalpur are bridging the gap between traditional management education and the skills needed for global competitiveness.
About the Dual-Degree Programme
The Dual-Degree Programme by IIM Sambalpur is designed in collaboration with several international universities. It provides students with an opportunity to pursue management education across two institutions — one in India and one abroad — allowing them to gain dual qualifications.
The programme integrates global learning modules, cross-cultural management training, and industry exposure. Students spend part of their academic tenure at IIM Sambalpur and the rest at a partner institution overseas. This structure enables them to experience different teaching styles, academic environments, and business ecosystems.
Highlights of the Immersion Programme
The Immersion Programme, recently hosted on the IIM Sambalpur campus, welcomed students from diverse backgrounds and global institutions. It focused on providing deep insights into India’s business environment, policy framework, and innovation-driven growth sectors.
During the event, faculty members and industry experts conducted interactive sessions covering topics such as:
- Indian economic growth and emerging business models
- The role of startups and digital transformation in India
- Social entrepreneurship and sustainability practices
- Leadership lessons from Indian corporate success stories
Students also participated in visits to local industries and innovation hubs in Odisha, helping them understand how Indian enterprises are adapting to global trends while preserving local strengths.
Fostering Global Collaboration
Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, highlighted that the institute’s global tie-ups aim to promote cross-border learning and leadership development. He said that management education today must go beyond theory to create professionals who can adapt, collaborate, and innovate in diverse global contexts.
The Dual-Degree Programme, he explained, is not just about earning two degrees but about cultivating two perspectives — one grounded in India’s dynamic growth story and another shaped by global business insights.
He also mentioned that IIM Sambalpur’s focus on innovation, inclusiveness, and integrity forms the foundation of all its programmes. The Immersion Programme aligns with these values, helping students understand both global competitiveness and local adaptability.
International Exposure and Learning Outcomes
The students who attended the immersion shared their experiences, appreciating the academic environment and exposure they received. Many said the interaction with Indian faculty, entrepreneurs, and policymakers helped them see how theoretical management concepts are applied in emerging economies like India.
The sessions also encouraged dialogue between Indian and international participants, allowing them to exchange ideas about business strategy, ethics, and innovation. Such exposure prepares students for leadership roles where they can contribute meaningfully to both local and international organisations.
IIM Sambalpur’s Growing Global Presence
Over the past few years, IIM Sambalpur has steadily strengthened its global outreach through collaborations with institutions in Europe, North America, and Asia. These partnerships include joint research, faculty exchange, and dual-degree opportunities.
The institute’s commitment to global education has positioned it as a key player among India’s new-generation IIMs. It has consistently focused on innovation-driven learning, experiential teaching, and women’s participation in management education — areas that reflect its forward-looking vision.
