IIM Sambalpur Boosts Community Education and Launches Forward-Looking AI and Policy Degrees

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur is currently implementing a dual strategy focused on community upliftment and the introduction of advanced undergraduate programs to foster readiness for the future. This approach underscores the institution's commitment to viewing education as a critical societal resource accessible at all levels.

The institute is conducting weekly educational outreach sessions every Sunday at the Sambalpur Public Library, specifically targeting government high school students. These sessions are led by a dedicated team of IIM faculty, current students, and experienced retired professionals. The curriculum is strategically designed to cover subjects essential for the modern era, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) principles, spoken English proficiency, ethical frameworks, and entrepreneurship fundamentals.

Director Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal confirmed that this community engagement initiative directly aligns with the mandates of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This policy prioritizes fulfilling the Prime Minister's directive to focus on the education of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, reflecting a broader institutional belief that societal progress is tied to empowering all members of the community.

To institutionalize this progressive vision, IIM Sambalpur introduced two significant new undergraduate qualifications in May 2025: the Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy, and the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. These novel degree pathways are engineered to cultivate strong capabilities in critical reasoning, advanced data analysis, and evidence-based decision-making, meeting the evolving demands of the global economy. The inaugural batches for these programs, welcoming 178 students in total, have since commenced at the Sambalpur campus.

The commitment to accessible, high-quality instruction is further evidenced by the focus on cutting-edge subjects. The curriculum for the new degrees draws inspiration from similar programs at elite global institutions. The community program’s structured learning opportunities serve as catalysts for student growth, culminating in the presentation of certificates to participating students as tangible recognition of their intellectual commitment.

The holistic ecosystem, ranging from mentorship by retired experts to the contemporary focus of the new degrees, is designed to systematically cultivate potential into realized ability, reinforcing the institute's role in regional development and educational innovation.