IIM Bangalore Launches BBA in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship: A New Era in Undergraduate Education
On September 16, 2024, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) marked a significant milestone in its educational journey by launching the BBA in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship (BBA DBE) programme. This virtual inauguration was not just a ceremony; it was a celebration of innovation and a commitment to shaping the future of undergraduate education in India. The event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including IIMB Director Prof. Rishikesha T Krishnan, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy (Secretary, Ministry of Education, Government of India), Dr. Devi Shetty (Chairman, Narayana Health), Mr. Mukesh Bansal (CEO of Curefit & Founder of Meraki Labs), Prof. Vasanthi Srinivasan (Chairperson, Digital Learning), and Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula (Chairperson, BBA DBE). Together, they addressed the first cohort of over 1,000 eager students, setting the stage for an exciting academic journey.
A Vision for Digital Education
In his opening remarks, Prof. Rishikesha T Krishnan emphasized IIMB’s extensive experience in delivering digital education over the past decade. He articulated the institute’s mission to provide high-quality education to undergraduates across India, seamlessly integrating traditional business management principles with the evolving demands of digital business environments. Prof. Krishnan assured students of an engaging and interactive learning experience, one that would prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Government Support for Digital Learning
Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, in his keynote address, highlighted the government’s vision for digital education, praising initiatives like SWAYAM that aim to democratize access to learning. He underscored IIMB’s pivotal role as a National Coordinator in advancing digital education across the country, reinforcing the importance of institutions like IIMB in shaping a digitally literate workforce.
Expanding Access to Higher Education
Dr. Devi Shetty, a prominent figure in the healthcare sector, lauded the BBA DBE programme as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at expanding access to higher education in India. He remarked, "At a time when education is often perceived as elitist, IIMB’s new programme provides opportunities for students who once could only dream of such an education." Dr. Shetty emphasized the strong demand in the job market for graduates equipped with digital expertise, particularly those holding an IIMB degree, which is recognized for its quality and rigor.
The Transformative Potential of Digital Business Education
Mr. Mukesh Bansal, drawing from his extensive experience in e-commerce, focused on the transformative potential of the BBA DBE programme. He advocated for high standards and increased accessibility, urging students to take ownership of their educational journey. Bansal stressed the importance of understanding consumer behavior through a digital lens, a skill that will be crucial in the rapidly evolving marketplace.
Essential Competencies for Future Leaders
Prof. Vasanthi Srinivasan outlined the key competencies required for the future workforce, which include critical thinking, collaborative learning, digital literacy, and effective communication. She highlighted IIMB’s digital platforms as essential tools that not only deliver academic content but also equip students with vital life and digital skills necessary for success in the modern world.
A Comprehensive Curriculum
Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula elaborated on the programme’s innovative curriculum, which merges digital awareness with core business acumen. He explained that the curriculum dedicates 30% to emerging digital business technologies, another 30% to foundational business topics such as finance, operations, and marketing, and places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurial thinking. This balanced approach ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the digital economy.
Engaging Learning Methods
The BBA DBE programme incorporates a variety of engaging learning methods, including prerecorded lectures, live sessions, offline assessments, internships, and projects through NSRCEL, one of India’s premier business incubators. Prof. Bhagavatula also emphasized the flexible exit options and compliance with UGC guidelines, ensuring that students have a well-rounded educational experience that is both rigorous and adaptable.
Commitment to Future Leaders
In his closing remarks, Prof. Bhagavatula reiterated IIMB’s commitment to shaping future leaders capable of driving digital transformation across industries. The launch of the BBA DBE programme is not just an addition to the curriculum; it represents a forward-thinking approach to education that recognizes the importance of digital skills in today’s economy.
Education Loan Information
For students considering this exciting new opportunity, financial support is available. For more information on education loans, including how to calculate EMIs, visit Calculate Education Loan EMI.
The launch of the BBA in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship at IIM Bangalore is a testament to the institute’s commitment to innovation and excellence in education, paving the way for a new generation of business leaders equipped to thrive in a digital world.