Latest news with #ChristopherAbraham
India Today
02-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
From 47% to 78% in 4 years: MBA employability rises with skill-focused curriculum
Once criticised for producing degree-holders with limited practical application, India's MBA education sector is now enjoying a remarkable transformation. Backed by data, industry demand, and updated pedagogy, MBA graduates are now more employable and relevant than ever India, employability among MBA graduates has risen sharply to 78% in 2025, up from 47% in 2021, according to Statista from Wheebox's India Skills Report 2025 and GMAC's 2024 Prospective Students Survey confirm the shift, hiring managers now actively seek MBA graduates with digital fluency, leadership potential, and According to IIM Sambalpur Director Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, 97% of Indian employers are willing to pay more for candidates with micro-credentials, especially in generative AI and LEARNING IS THE NEW NORMIndian B-schools have overhauled their approach in response to a shifting job market. Institutions like SP Jain Global, IIM Sambalpur, BIMTECH, and Badruka School of Management are embedding AI-powered decision-making, data storytelling, sustainability, and cross-cultural leadership into their MBA Christopher Abraham of SP Jain notes, 'We no longer just teach AI -- we integrate it into learning paths, personalised mentorship, and real-world simulation exercises.' Students now graduate equipped to automate workflows, build predictive models, and apply AI across DEGREE-NEXTHiring needs have evolved. Today, recruiters care less about the name of the institution and more about the functional skills and emotional intelligence of Siddharth Anand, CEO of Tertiary Education Advisors, puts it: 'The MBA graduate who can speak the language of both Excel and empathy is the one who stands out'.This reflects in how MBA programmes now offer courses in ESG strategy, public governance, behavioural economics, and human-centric leadership. Business schools are creating labs for digital transformation, experiential entrepreneurship, and consulting case competitions to help students master practical CLASSROOM TO BOARDROOM: CURRICULAR CHANGESHere's how B-schools are rethinking the MBA journey:Live business simulations and startup incubators—e.g., IIM Sambalpur's I-Hub and Rangavati CentreBlockchain and fintech labs like BIMTECH's 'BIMCOIN' initiative for applied finance learningAI-integrated learning assistants at SP JainRural immersion and sustainability projects for ground-level exposureInterdisciplinary pathways such as BS in Management and Public Policy feeding into MBA tracksAs per Dr Pankaj Priya of BIMTECH, the key shift is in pedagogy: 'From traditional models, we have moved to lab-based learning, career mapping through AI, and psychometric profiling to align strengths with career paths'.STRONG PLACEMENT RECORDS AND FUTURE READINESSIIM Sambalpur reported 100% placements in 2024, with a 21% year-on-year increase in placement value. Recruiters from consulting, BFSI, FMCG, and IT sectors are actively hiring MBA grads who can navigate uncertainty and use digital tools in platforms like GMAC indicate a sharp rise in global recognition of Indian MBA talent, with students eyeing international internships and hybrid work opportunities. MBA students trained in storytelling, negotiation, and personal branding are especially in demand.A SHIFT IN MINDSET: THE INNER MBAWhile technical and analytical skills are crucial, leading B-schools are also focusing on the 'Inner MBA' -- emotional resilience, ethical judgement, and influence. Through structured coaching, case discussions, and workshops, students learn to lead with purpose and build clarity in Anand sums it up: 'We aren't just giving them skills -- we're changing the way they perceive their own potential and their role in the world of work'.FUTURE-READY, TODAYThe rise in employability is not accidental -- it's the result of deliberate reform, collaboration with industry, and a greater understanding of what the market demands. With India poised to become a USD 5 trillion economy, the demand for MBA graduates equipped with adaptive, ethical, and technical prowess is only expected to MBA has come a long way in India -- from being a credential to becoming a powerful launchpad to leadership, innovation, and purpose-driven success.- Ends
Mint
18-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
Planning post-grad abroad? Put strategy over sentiment to make the right choice.
For thousands of Indian students considering postgraduate (PG) education abroad, the dream often comes with a hefty price tag and a complicated set of decisions. Whether you're aiming for a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) degree in the US or a management course in Germany, understanding the total cost of education—including tuition, living expenses, and other less obvious factors—is essential for making a smart financial and academic choice. Here's how to go about it. US is the most expensive The United States remains one of the most expensive destinations for a PG education. A two-year STEM degree in the US averages $100,000, factoring in tuition ($32,000 a year) and living expenses ($18,000 a year). Management courses are even pricier at about $116,000 for the same duration. Students heading to the United Kingdom can expect to pay around $58,500 for a an 18-month PG course in either STEM or management, while in Australia the total cost ranges from $58,500 for STEM to $63,000 for management degrees of a similar duration. Germany is the most budget-friendly option. With near-zero tuition (around $600 a year) and modest living costs of $12,200 a year, a two-year PG course costs roughly $25,600. Singapore offers one-year programs, with costs ranging from $33,500 for STEM to $38,500 for management. Also read | Should you fund your child's foreign education with savings, a loan, or both? 'Families need to think beyond just tuition," said Mayuresh Kini, co-founder of Zinc Money, a fintech company focused on providing financial solutions for families planning overseas education for their children. 'You have to account for living costs, travel, visa, insurance, and potential exchange-rate fluctuations. That's where smart financial planning—like investing in USD assets or UCITS funds—can help hedge against rupee depreciation." UCITS funds are mutual funds that adhere to the European Union's Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities framework. How to choose the right college Choosing the right college involves more than just where you want to live. 'Don't choose a country first; that's often misguided," said Dr Christopher Abraham, professor and head of campus at SP Jain Global School of Management. 'Start by identifying your field of interest, then evaluate the academic fit. Dive into course content, faculty profiles, and research outputs. Reputation alone isn't enough." Abraham emphasised evaluating the potential return on investment (ROI)—not just through tuition and living expenses, but through job placement opportunities, expected starting salaries, internship support, and alumni success. 'ROI isn't just about cost; it's about the financial and career trajectory your degree offers," he said. Kini agreed, saying, 'Start with your field of study, then shortlist top institutions globally. From there, weigh in location preferences, visa rules, job prospects, and overall costs." Oft-overlooked factors An often-overlooked factor is the strength of the local industry. A country that supports your chosen field with a vibrant job market, internships, and potential startup opportunities can drastically influence post-graduate outcomes. 'Studying in Germany for engineering or biotech makes sense because their industry supports it," said Abraham. 'Likewise, Dubai offers excellent opportunities in business and fintech, and is significantly cheaper than Singapore or the US when it comes to daily living expenses." Abraham also highlighted the importance of checking immigration rules and work rights. 'Visa policies can change quickly. The US may seem attractive, but it's legally unpredictable. Countries in Europe and Asia often offer clearer, more achievable paths to long-term residency." Also read: Studying abroad? How prepaid forex cards help manage student expenses Cultural compatibility is another key factor. 'You may love the idea of studying in Germany, but not speaking German could limit integration and even job prospects," said Abraham. 'Understanding social norms such as punctuality, and having access to psychological counselling or cultural integration programmes is crucial." Many Indian families default to US institutions because of a relative's past success, Abraham noted. 'The global education landscape is changing rapidly," Kini said. 'Regulations, costs and job markets evolve. Flexibility and research are your best allies. Planning your finances with the mindset of investing—perhaps even creating a non-rupee portfolio early—can be more effective than scrambling for last-minute education loans." How to compare costs Abraham recommended comparing the cost of a McDonald's burger or Coca-Cola across cities to evaluate affordability. 'It's a surprisingly accurate way to gauge daily living costs," he said. Abraham also cautioned students not to be swayed by higher salaries in countries such as the United States. 'While US salaries might appear more attractive on paper, you need to account for deductions such as taxes, healthcare premiums, and rent," he said. 'Someone earning 20,000 dirhams (about $5,500) tax-free in Dubai—which is common for our MBA graduates—can actually save more than someone earning $10,000 in the US." He added that employers in Dubai often cover essential costs such as health insurance, visa fees, and sometimes even accommodation and transportation. This reduces the individual's financial burden and allows for higher savings—something that's often overlooked in the rush to pursue the 'American dream'. Also read | Study abroad: How to prepare your class 9 kid for Harvard and Yale 'Many people underestimate the hidden costs that come with studying and working in the US," said Abraham. 'It's important to compare the complete picture, not just salaries or university rankings. A more affordable city with better financial support and job prospects may offer a higher return on investment in the long run." Bottom line Studying abroad isn't just an academic decision—it's a strategic life choice that blends personal goals with financial planning. Start by matching your field of study with a country's strengths. Choose courses which offer skills that will remain relevant long in the future, and plan your finances early to manage currency risks and rising costs. Also, avoid picking a country before choosing your field study. Don't blindly chase prestige or follow someone else's path – focus on what aligns with your own goals and strengths.
