Indian Institute of Management Kashipur awarded degrees to 546 students at its 13th convocation, with a mix of optimism and realism shaping the message from the institute’s leadership.
Students from MBA, MBA (Analytics), Executive MBA and doctoral programmes received their degrees at the ceremony, which was attended by Justice Guhanathan Narender as the chief guest.
Director Neeraj Dwivedi said the institute, set up in 2011, is now entering its adolescent phase as it nears 15 years. The focus, he indicated, is on strengthening academics while improving industry connections.
He also pointed to a steady rise in gender diversity, with women making up 49 per cent of the student body.
Balancing growth with ground realities
Even as the institute expands, placement remains a concern, something the director acknowledged openly. Like other newer IIMs, Kashipur faces a location disadvantage that affects recruiter turnout and salary benchmarks.
Analytics emerges as a key strength
The institute is increasingly leaning on specialised courses to build its identity. The MBA (Analytics) programme, in particular, is being positioned as a growth driver.
Silver medallist Pradeep Pandikashala said strong academic foundations remain central. “Our faculty is our biggest strength, and analytics is giving us an added advantage,” he said.
Professionals return to classrooms
For many Executive MBA graduates, the course was about staying relevant in a rapidly changing job market.
Gold medalist Nikhil Popli, with over 17 years in the IT sector, said the programme helped him upgrading his skills that can be applied at work. “You need to learn what the market demands and what works on the ground,” he said.
Silver medalist Saksham Agarwal described the demanding routine of balancing work and study. “Five days in office and two days of study was tough, but this is what is needed today,” he said.
Building a regional footprint
Beyond placements and classrooms, the institute is also trying to expand its role in the region. Initiatives include skill training for around 150 women entrepreneurs and programmes to train principals of government schools in Uttarakhand.
The approach signals a broader attempt to link management education with local development.
For IIM Kashipur, the convocation was not just about handing out degrees. It reflected an institute in transition, no longer new, but still working its way towards becoming firmly established.