IIM Sambalpur Hosts Immersion Programme for India’s First Dual-Degree Executive PhD & DBA and MBA Fintech Management
Sambalpur, October 31, 2025: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutions, hosted the Immersion Programme for India’s first dual-degree batches — Executive PhD & DBA (Batch 2024–27) and MBA Fintech Management (Batch 2024–26).
These groundbreaking programmes are part of IIM Sambalpur’s vision to promote global academic partnerships and leadership excellence, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in innovative management education.
Global Collaboration for World-Class Learning
The Executive PhD & DBA Dual Degree Programme is offered in collaboration with IAE Bordeaux University School of Management, France, while the MBA Fintech Management is jointly conducted with Sorbonne Business School, France.
Designed for working professionals, the dual-degree Executive PhD & DBA allows participants to pursue advanced doctoral studies without interrupting their careers.
The first batch (2024–27) includes 21 senior professionals from reputed organizations such as the Indian Police Services, Google, NTT DATA, HBC, and the Adani Group.
The second batch (2025–28) comprises 24 participants from institutions like Cognizant, Amazon, Accenture, National Bank of Oman, and the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, holding leadership roles including CEO, Director, and Vice President.
The MBA Fintech Management (2024–26) batch features 10 professionals from corporations such as EY India LLP, Infosys, and Amazon, serving in positions like CFO, Associate Director, and Global Senior Manager.
Distinguished Guests and Key Remarks
The ceremony was graced by Dr. Chandan Chowdhury, Executive Director & Professor, Indian School of Business (ISB) Hyderabad, as the Chief Guest.
Other distinguished guests included Prof. Alberto Arbulu, Associate Dean, Université de Bordeaux, France; Prof. Jorge Cardoso, Programme Director, DBA, IAE Bordeaux University School of Management, France; and Prof. Mahadeo Prasad Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur.
“Education and Economy Go Hand in Hand”: Prof. Jaiswal
Addressing the event, Prof. Mahadeo Prasad Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said:
“India stands today as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, advancing at 6.5% growth. History reminds us that when India had world-class institutions like Takshashila and Nalanda, it also commanded 33% of global GDP — proving that there is a deep connection between education and economic power.”
He added that IIM Sambalpur is the first B-school in India to introduce a gender-inclusive MBA policy and an AI-enabled learning system, enhancing creativity, integrity, and inclusiveness in classrooms.
Prof. Jaiswal also announced that the institute will soon organize a Women Empowerment Conclave and a Brand India Conclave.
Innovation, Ethics, and Global Outlook
Chief Guest Dr. Chandan Chowdhury highlighted India’s global leadership in fintech innovation:
“As we move forward, we must focus on research-driven innovation. The rise of UPI has transformed India into a global fintech powerhouse, setting benchmarks for the world.”
Prof. Jorge Cardoso emphasized the unique Indo-French collaboration:
“Our partnership is a 50-50 model based on meritocracy and equality. This initiative not only offers global learning but also strengthens cultural and human exchange.”
Prof. Alberto Arbulu stressed the ethical purpose of education:
“Higher education must nurture ethical, responsible, and visionary leaders. The true goal of education is to transform mindsets and create a better tomorrow.”
Ceremonial Highlights
The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Padmavathy Dhillon, Chairperson, Executive PhD & DBA Dual Degree Programme, IIM Sambalpur, followed by the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. Diwahar Sunder Nadar, Chairperson, MBA Fintech Management Programme.
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