Vivekanand Education Society Institute of Management

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In an era defined by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), the role of business schools in shaping tomorrow’s leaders has never been more critical. With the business landscape constantly evolving due to factors like supply chain disruptions, changing market dynamics, and digital transformations, the need for agile and resilient leaders is paramount. This poses a fundamental question to India’s top business schools: How can they best prepare their students to thrive in this ever-changing environment? Amidst the proliferation of business schools, Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Management Studies and Research (VESIM) emerges as a beacon of distinction. In a time where the demands on business education are evolving rapidly, VESIM stands out for its innovative approach, industry-aligned curriculum, and commitment to nurturing adaptable and forward-thinking leaders.

From the Scratch

Established in 1962, Vivekanand Education Society’s (VES) has transformed into a premier institution under the guidance of the visionary Late Shri. Hashu Advani. Initially serving 256 students, VES has expanded its reach to encompass over 25,000 students across 26 institutions in Mumbai.

A significant milestone in 1994 marked the inception of Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Management Studies and Research (VESIM), a modern business school. With an enrollment capacity of 180 students in MMS, VESIM is dedicated to propelling deserving individuals toward successful corporate careers. Since its establishment, VESIM has remained at the forefront of business education, nurturing leaders committed to making positive contributions to companies, individuals, and society.

VESIM’s humanistic approach to management education, backed by top-tier faculty, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and interactive teaching methodologies, has positioned it as a leading business school in Mumbai. With a steadfast commitment to fostering socially responsible business leaders, VESIM provides a conducive environment for learning and holistic personal, professional, and intellectual development.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

VESIM offers a variety of Master of Management programs (MMS) encompassing specializations such as Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Information Technology, and Operations, each spanning a duration of two years.

In its commitment to academic excellence and industry relevance, VESIM designs a dynamic curriculum in collaboration with industry experts. This curriculum integrates real-world case studies, internships, and workshops to equip students with the skills necessary for the professional arena.

To augment the soft skills of its students, VESIM adopts a deliberate strategy. It has appointed dedicated contractual faculty members to focus on areas such as the Life Skills Program, Interview Skills, and Online Image Building, aiming to create a strong online presence and maintain credibility. Other focal points include Self-Awareness, Personal Grooming, and cultivating the right body language for professional environments.

A Hub of Integrated Learning Infrastructure

VESIM prioritizes providing comprehensive facilities and resources to enrich the learning experience for its students. These include cutting-edge classrooms equipped with modern teaching aids to foster interactive and engaging learning experiences, along with a well-stocked resource center offering an extensive collection of books, journals, and research materials.

The B-School boasts a spacious auditorium utilized for seminars, conferences, and cultural events, as well as secure and comfortable hostel accommodation designed to accommodate outstation students. In addition to physical facilities, VESIM offers advanced computer labs equipped with state-of-the-art technology for practical learning sessions, seamless internet connectivity available across the campus to support research and coursework, and integration of digital tools and platforms to facilitate virtual classrooms and collaborative projects. Access to e-books, online journals, and databases further enhances the research capabilities of students. By integrating both physical and ICT-enabled facilities, VESIM creates a holistic learning environment aimed at preparing students for the challenges presented by the modern business landscape.

Fostering Social Responsibility and Industry Readiness: VESIM’s Unique Initiatives

What distinguishes VESIM from other management institutes in the region is its humanistic approach, exemplified through initiatives like “Yuva for Seva” and “Sell on,” along with its notable alumni network.

The “Yuva for Seva” Community Project serves as an integral aspect of the program, connecting students with socio-economic issues that require attention from households, academia, and industry. This endeavor aims to instill a sense of empathy and compassion essential for future leadership roles. Through this project, students collaborate closely with NGOs, orphanages, old age homes, and social enterprises to comprehend organizational philosophies and address operational challenges. Additionally, students undergo 21 days of training from NGOs to enhance awareness, sensitivity, and understanding. Soft skill training, conducted by HR faculties, further cultivates ethical and professional discipline.

The Industry Internship, also known as the Summer Internship Project, constitutes a crucial component of the program. Designed to bridge the gap between academia and the corporate world, this internship requires all MMS students to undertake a 4-6 week project in the industry after the II Semester. Through summer and winter internships, students gain firsthand experience and exposure to corporate culture, engaging in on-the-job training and specialized projects tailored to their areas of expertise.

Building Pathways

When approached to discuss internships and placements at VESIM, Prof. Satish Modh, Director of the B-School emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing students with diverse opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings. He stated, “VESIM maintains strong connections with a wide array of industries, facilitating internships that align with students’ career aspirations. Our dedicated placement cell works tirelessly to secure placements for our graduates, with numerous reputed companies visiting our campus for recruitment drives.”

Through the conversation the Director also spoke about how VESIM also cultivates an entrepreneurial spirit by offering specialized courses, workshops, and mentorship programs aimed at equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the institute hosts events, pitch competitions, and networking sessions, providing students with opportunities to interact with successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Additionally, VESIM’s Entrepreneurship Cell serves as a hub for idea incubation, offering support for aspiring entrepreneurs in developing and launching their ventures.

VESIM’s Project AIDEdu Initiative: Bridging Educational Gaps and Fostering Global Collaboration

VESIM prepares ambitious professionals for success in the corporate world through various programs, interactive teaching, and practical learning. Prof. Satish Modh, the Director of VESIM, focuses on the holistic development of the institution, with students as the central focus.

In a significant move towards revolutionizing higher education, VESIM has secured funding from the European Commission for the AIDEdu project. This project aims to establish a Teaching and Learning Centre of Excellence for Accessible, Inclusive, and Digitized Management Education in India and Nepal, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 10, and 17. The project involves partners from Europe and aims to improve the quality of education in universities across targeted countries.

The project, led by Prof. Satish Modh and coordinated by Prof. Shalini Bariar, along with academic expert Prof. Pradip Mitra, demonstrates a commitment to advancing education and promoting sustainable development through collaborative efforts.

Prof. Satish Modh – Director

Prof. Satish Modh, renowned for his expertise in business ethics and strategy, has made significant contributions to the field, particularly through his research on Indian value systems and their application to ethical management. With an illustrious academic background, he has taught ethics and business ethics at prestigious institutions including SJM School of Management (IIT Bombay), School of Business Management (NMIMS – Deemed to be University), and the Department of Education at the University of Mumbai. Modh holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Electronics Engineering and Applied Electronics, as well as financial management, and obtained his doctorate in strategy from the University of Mumbai. A seasoned professional, he previously led the business transformation group at Air India before transitioning to academia at NMIMS University. Beyond his academic pursuits, Modh has actively contributed to various organizations and forums, serving in leadership roles and participating in international conferences on ethics and disaster management. He is also a prolific author, having penned several books and articles on ethical management, disaster management, and Indian philosophy, earning recognition both nationally and internationally. As a respected figure in the academic community, Modh serves as a PhD research guide for the University of Mumbai and SNDT University, further solidifying his commitment to fostering knowledge and ethical leadership.