Fostering leadership excellence:  IIM Jammu inaugurates fifth batch of Nurturing Future Leadership Programunder the aegis of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu inaugurated the fifth batch of the Nurturing Future Leadership Program on 27th January 2025 at its permanent campus, Vedanta, MDP Centre, Jagti. Organized under the aegis of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme, Ministry of Education, Government of India, this initiative reflects IIM Jammu's commitment to academic excellence and leadership development. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, and commenced with a lamp-lighting ceremony. Participants introduced themselves, sharing their diverse academic and professional experiences.

Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, extended a warm welcome to the participants, reflecting on the institute’s remarkable journey. From humble beginnings with 47 students, IIM Jammu has grown to over 1,150 students across three campuses, supported by a dedicated faculty strength of 64, including professors of practice and young academicians. Highlighting the institute's evolution and achievements, he emphasized the power of simplicity and transparency in leadership, stating that processes should be robust and not dependent on individuals. He urged participants to actively engage, ask challenging questions, and make the program a success through two-way communication.

He noted the importance of aligning efforts with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionfor a developed India by 2047, stressing collaboration across public and private educational institutions to achieve this goal. Drawing inspiration from India's intellectual heritage, he shared an example of the Mahakumbh Mela, emphasizing its lessons in management, including the execution, cleanliness, and healthcare.

He encouraged participants to embrace their roots, exude positive energy, and take pride in being part of a noble profession. He also highlighted the institute’s commitment to excellence, urging participants to explore the campus, including the Nalanda library, and to collaborate with faculty members for research and explore Ph.D. avenues at IIM Jammu. He encouraged participants to share their expectations and ensure a productive and enriching experience.

Dr. Baljeet Singh, Program Director, IIM Jammu, provided an overview of the five-day program, highlighting its focus on equipping faculty with leadership skills to enhance their academic journeys and create impactful learning environments. Dr. Ateeque Shaikh, Chairperson, Executive Education & Consultancy (EE&C), emphasized the program’s aim of fostering academic leaders and shared insights into IIM Jammu’s diverse executive education initiatives,which include online, offline, and hybrid programs.

This unique residential program, scheduled from 27th to 31st January 2025, is designed to cultivate leadership capabilities among educators at various levels, creating a pool of potential leaders ready to drive generational transitions. Delivered by IIM Jammu’s faculty, the program aims to help institutions enhance their leadership potential.

The fifth batch comprises 22 participants from institutes across India and is fully funded by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The curriculum is structured into four key themes: leadership, communication, skill development, and recent government initiatives. Over five days, participants will engage in lectures, interactive workshops, group discussions, case studies, role-plays, and practical exercises, ensuring the active application of concepts.

Dr. Vedika Saxena, Program Director, IIM Jammu, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and contributors. The event concluded with the National Anthem, instilling a sense of pride and unity. Following the inaugural ceremony, participants toured the institute’s campus, gaining insights into its state-of-the-art infrastructure. The Nurturing Future Leadership Program aligns with the Malaviya Mission’s vision of empowering educators and leaders to shape India’s educational landscape, reinforcing IIM Jammu’s position as a hub for leadership and innovation.