Leading the Way in BFSI Education
The dawn of this new era has brought about an unprecedented demand for resilient professionals in the banking and finance sector. In the aftermath of the pandemic, the emphasis on reliable and stable banking systems has surged, leading to a heightened requirement for individuals possessing substantial knowledge and skills in BFSI. This is where institutions like Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance stand out as exemplars of educational excellence.
They not only demonstrate an unwavering dedication to providing top-notch education in the BFSI domain but also work tirelessly to equip students for a promising future. Their distinction is further underscored by their notable recognition as a contender for the prestigious title of “Business School of the Year 2023 – BFSI Talent Enrichment”. This accolade not only acknowledges their outstanding contributions but also reaffirms SSBF’s pivotal role in shaping the future of banking and finance professionals.
Business School of the Year 2023 – BFSI Talent Enrichment
For the past 13 years, under the umbrella of Symbiosis International Deemed University (SIU), Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF) has carved its niche as a distinguished institution in the field of banking and finance education. Unlike many other business schools, SSBF exclusively offers an MBA program specializing in banking and finance, addressing the soaring demand and expansive opportunities within the BFSI industry.
The curriculum, starting from the first semester, delves deep into all facets of banking and finance, encompassing areas such as financial management, accounting, forex, derivatives, securities portfolios, and the burgeoning field of fintech – a unique specialization recently introduced. This distinctive focus sets SSBF apart from other business schools that provide a broader spectrum of finance specializations.
“At SSBF, we firmly believe in experiential learning, a key differentiator that sets us apart from our counterparts”, shared – Dr. Neha Parashar, the Director. “This approach entails students venturing into nearby villages to share their knowledge, particularly in courses like wealth management and financial planning. By engaging in detailed discussions with local residents, students gain a valuable experiential perspective”, she continued.
Through the conversation with the director, we also learnt about how SSBF implements a ‘Practice with Managers’ concept, ensuring industry professionals join them for each course. These experts provide insights and bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. Also, workshops, beyond the standard curriculum, are an integral part of our pedagogy. These workshops cover a range of topics, from Python programming to financial modelling and analytics, providing students with a deeper understanding and a chance to hone their skills.
In essence, SSBF’s teaching methodology is characterized by hands-on learning experiences, interactive sessions with industry practitioners, and supplementary workshops aimed at preparing students to meet the dynamic demands of the financial sector. This comprehensive approach ensures that all the graduates are not only academically proficient but also equipped with practical skills sought after by the industry.
Bridging Industry and the Academia
At Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF), the faculty members encompass a wealth of experience drawn from both academia and industry. SSBF follows a unique approach, inspired by SIU, which includes the appointment of professors of practice. This initiative aligns with the recent UGC directive, allowing individuals with a substantial industry background to contribute to academia. The belief is rooted in the idea that these seasoned professionals bring invaluable industry insights to the educational realm.
SSBF’s Remarkable Journey
Over the years, SSBF has achieved numerous milestones, marking a journey of continuous growth and progress. Initially, the institution began with a modest group of students. However, after 3-4 years, it became evident that there was a substantial demand and acceptance for the degree program. This led to a triennial influx of students, driven by the recognized value of the degree.
The increase in student intake is a direct reflection of the growing demand and acceptance of the degree program. What started as a small cohort has evolved into a thriving community, with a widening array of companies actively seeking SSBF graduates for placement opportunities. The institution now proudly announces the successful conclusion of placement and internship seasons each year.
A significant milestone for SSBF has been the establishment of partnerships with prominent industry players. These collaborations have opened doors to a diverse range of opportunities for students. Notably, SSBF has joined forces with NSE Smart, a leading industry service provider, to equip students with hands-on experience in technology. Through NSE Academy and its product, NSE Smart, students gain access to a virtual platform for learning about trading in commodity and stock markets.
Another notable achievement is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London Institute of Banking and Finance. This partnership is set to pave the way for globally recognized certificates for SSBF students. This development signifies a significant step towards industrialized certifications with international recognition.
SSBF’s dedication to industry-driven education is evident in its various workshops and certifications conducted in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as Crystal and BSE Brokers Forum. These initiatives are designed to provide students with practical, hands-on experience in the banking and finance sector.
All in all, with an expanded student body of 120 to 150 individuals joining in each academic year, SSBF has emerged as a thriving institution, propelled by its strategic initiatives and industry collaborations. The campus is abuzz with activities focused on financial literacy and community engagement, further solidifying SSBF’s position as a leader in banking and finance education.