Degrees for IIM Students: Kapil Sibal

Kapil Sibal, Union Minister for Human Resource Development, has suggested that instead of diplomas, degrees should be issued to all the students graduating from the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM). The deemed university status to IIMs would allow the institutes to award degrees. The proposal which is currently under consideration by the ministry is expected to lend greater global acceptance to the IIM pass-outs. Historically, IIM graduates from across the country have been lapped up by top recruiters from across the globe. However, students wanting to pursue higher studies or those interested in research have found management diploma an impediment in showing the requisite number of academic years. As a result, the demand of a degree certificate, instead of a diploma has been increased.

Among other key issues the need for a National Academy of Management, on the lines of the existing Academy of Law. The matters pertaining to strengthen infrastructure facilities for students studying at IIMs across the country were also discussed. To attract more foreign students, especially from countries where education standards are at par with or above than that of India, the panel felt the need to build better infrastructure for students, including hostels and libraries.There is a great need for fast track infrastructure development for the baby IIMs in the country i.e.  at Tiruchirapally, Kahsipur, Ranchi, Rohtak, Raipur and Udaipur. Most of the new IIMs are still functioning from rented campuses and with faculty borrowed from other institutes. The paucity of teachers was felt more acutely and the authority like National Knowledge Network would be approached for filling-up of vacancies.

Degrees for IIM Students: Kapil Sibal