SPJIMR’s Class of 2026: Strength in diversity

Mumbai, July 01, 2024: Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) proudly welcomed an exceptional cohort of participants into its Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Business Management) (PGDM (BM)) programmes for the 2024-26 batch. This diverse group brings together individuals from varied backgrounds and exemplifies SPJIMR’s dedication to cultivating an inclusive learning atmosphere to mould future leaders.

Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, said, “Our diverse PGDM and PGDM (BM) cohorts bring varied personal, regional, academic and industry perspectives, and promote an inclusive learning environment. Our goal is to develop future leaders who will excel in their fields, embody wise innovation, and strive to make a meaningful societal impact. Diversity makes the classroom experience richer, thus preparing our students to drive positive change in their organisations and communities.”

PGDM and PGDM (BM) programme participants have come from 26 states and 350 cities across India, ensuring regional perspectives. While the PGDM programme has 66% men and 34% women participants, the PGDM (BM) programme has 75% men and 25% women participants.

The cohorts bring together an array of academic backgrounds, spanning Banking and Insurance, Finance and Commerce, Arts and Humanities, Management, and Science, with approximately 60% being engineers. The diverse mix ensures multidimensional thinking and innovative problem-solving.

Prof. Renuka Kamath, Professor, Marketing, and Associate Dean, Full-time Programmes, welcomed the participants and said, “Make the most of your two years with us by building your capabilities. As Marshall Goldsmith said: What got you here may not get you there. While likeability is very important to all of us, learn to balance your capabilities with your likeability. Do not compromise capability for likeability!”

Industry experience further strengthens the group. 88% of PGDM participants bring valuable expertise from sectors such as IT Consulting, Financial Services, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, FMCG, E-Commerce, and Engineering. Participants represent over 200 companies including Accenture, American Express, Blackrock, Deloitte Consulting, EY, IBM, Reliance Industries and Tata Motors among others.

Prof. Ashita Aggarwal, Professor, Marketing, and Chairperson, PGDM and PGDM (BM) emphasised the keys to success: “Successful individuals demonstrate three qualities. Firstly, know your strengths and ask, ‘What unique value do I bring?’ Secondly, follow your passion courageously, turning your work into a fulfilling pursuit. Lastly, maintain curiosity and humility—integrity shapes character and guides decisions even when no one is watching.”

SPJIMR’s PGDM and PGDM (BM) programmes empower future leaders driven by innovation and a commitment to societal impact, fostering capability and diverse perspectives. SPJIMR looks forward to the transformative journey ahead for its students, celebrating their informed, passionate and ethical aspirations for the future!