Traditionally, the industry-academia relationship in business schools has involved Institutes approaching industries with a list of proposed activities, seeking support and involvement. However, times have changed, and this relationship has evolved into a true partnership—one grounded in mutual respect and shared objectives. In today’s world, where preparing industry-ready individuals who can contribute back to society is vital, innovative and collaborative engagement with industry is essential.
In this very context, one prestigious management Institute stands out: the Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE). Founded in 1964 as an autonomous, non-profit society, IPE has become a leading AICTE-approved management Institute, recognized as one of the top business schools in the country for its outstanding industry integration. In recognition of its exceptional commitment to this area, we are honored to award IPE the title of Business School of the Year 2024 – Industry Integration Excellence at the Education Excellence Awards 2024.
Six Decades of Transforming Students
The Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) has consistently aimed to shape students into tomorrow’s global leaders in both organizations and society. Recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR, MoE, GoI). IPE began its journey in management education in 1981, launching an MBA program in Public Enterprise specifically designed for working professionals. Since then, IPE has expanded its offerings, introducing a variety of specialized full-time PGDM programs in areas such as Retail & Marketing, Banking Insurance & Financial Services, International Business and Human Resources. Most recently, in 2024, the Institute added PGDM program in Business Analytics and Fellow program in Management to its portfolio, as shared by Prof. S. Sreenivasa Murthy, the Director of IPE. He noted, “Our intake is now around 540 students, with a total student body of over 1,100 from across India.”
IPE admits students based on their test scores in CAT/XAT/GMAT/MAT/CMAT/ATMA tests, followed by a thorough evaluation through personal interviews and group discussions besides their academic excellence to ensure their readiness for management education. Each new batch begins with a comprehensive two-week orientation program, offering students an overview of management careers, opportunities to connect with industry experts and alumni, and foundational insights into key management domains like marketing, HR, finance, and operations. The program also emphasizes universal human values, wellness practices such as yoga, and essential career-building skills, catering to students from diverse academic backgrounds, including commerce, engineering, sciences, arts and medicine.
Importantly, IPE is fully aligned with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and regularly organizes conferences to highlight the advantages of the policy, such as the flexibility of courses, multidisciplinary approaches, and skill-oriented learning. IPE’s updated curriculum embodies these principles by integrating skill-based and specialized courses aimed at improving employability. Additionally, IPE offers courses in Personal Development and Business Communications, Business Aptitude for first-year students, delivered by industry professionals.
Business School of the Year 2024 – Industry Integration Excellence
The Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) sets itself apart not only with its comprehensive academic programs but also through impactful research, consultancy, and executive training initiatives. Industry interaction is a deeply embedded aspect of IPE’s academic process. Before each academic session, the Institute organizes Board of Studies and Academic Advisory Council meetings—in May, well before the session starts on July 1—to review and finalize the curriculum based on insights from faculty, alumni, industry experts, recruiters, and students.
This strong industry engagement supports IPE’s impressive placement record, consistently achieving a solid 95% placement rate, with the few remaining students often pursuing family businesses, studying abroad, or following other individual paths.
In the past year alone, IPE trained over 500 executives through different MDPs, working in both the public and private sectors. One notable recent achievement is a ₹1 crore grant from the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) for studying the impact of government initiatives on girls’ education. Projects like this, supported by ICSSR and other reputable organizations, further strengthen IPE’s industry connections, allowing the Institute to continuously bridge academic theory with practical application.
Cultivating an Entrepreneurial Mindset through Real-World Exposure and Academic Integration
Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship by offering students ample opportunities to engage with successful entrepreneurs. Alumni entrepreneurs are regularly invited to participate in Board of Studies meetings, where they provide valuable insights and guidance. IPE’s Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell) actively organizes lectures where entrepreneurs share their experiences, including both their achievements and challenges. The Institute recently organized 10th Edition of Startupedia to encourage students from different management schools including IIMs and IITs to present their B-Plans and get mentorship support from successful Entrepreneurs.
In addition, IPE includes a mandatory Entrepreneurship Development course in its curriculum, reinforcing the significance of entrepreneurship. Students interested in deeper specialization can also choose entrepreneurship as an elective in addition to areas like Marketing, HR, Finance, and Operations.
In the Days to Come
To summarize the discussion, Director Prof. Murthy outlined the future goals of IPE. Looking ahead, IPE aims to foster comprehensive student development by encouraging a variety of student clubs and extracurricular activities that enhance communication skills, confidence, and networking abilities. With more than 12 student clubs covering areas such as Marketing, Finance, Operations, HR, Photography, Book Reading etc., these initiatives prepare students for thriving careers in the corporate world, further strengthening IPE’s tradition of shaping well-rounded professionals. Through its Centre for Sustainability, IPE encourages students to create awareness among the Public about the sustainable future through best Sustainability practices such as non-use of plastics, avoiding wastage of water, good waste disposal practices use of solar energy etc.
