“Establishing a campus in India requires careful planning, investment, and deep understanding”

Indian higher education sector is going through a major transformation phase with the introduction of National Education Policy and in the post covid era. The management education has seen a major shift in skill-sets being demanded by the industry. Nitish Jain, President of S P Jain School Of Global Management speaking to Shiksha.com talks about India's educational school's landscape in foreign countries and other developments in the sector and government’s plan to allow foreign universities to set-up campuses in India.

Q. What are some of the major obstacles currently confronting the education sector in India?

A. Traditionally, the Indian education system has been focused on rote learning and memorisation rather than the development of skills. There's a strong emphasis on scoring high marks in exams, often at the expense of understanding concepts or developing practical skills. This doesn't adequately prepare students for real-world challenges or foster a love for lifelong learning.

Indian curriculum is heavy on theory with less emphasis on the application of knowledge, innovation, or creative thinking. There's a pressing need to revamp the curriculum to make it more relevant to the 21st century, incorporating elements like critical thinking, problem-solving, digital literacy, and other soft skills.

Despite the significant advantages offered by technology, its adoption in India's education sector often encounters considerable resistance, due to various factors, including the lack of necessary infrastructure, inadequate teacher training, the financial burden associated with the implementation, and a general hesitancy towards change, which is not unique to India or its education sector. Systemic changes are necessary to overcome these challenges and fully embrace the potential benefits of technology in education.

Q. What reforms do you believe are necessary to improve the quality of management education in India?

A. A key area for improvement is technology integration. This includes not only familiarising students with the latest technology tools but also teaching them how to leverage technology, like ChatGPT, strategically in various business contexts. Developing advanced AI labs and dedicated spaces for students to explore, experiment with, and understand these technologies is crucial.

Equally important is fostering collaborations with leading tech companies. These partnerships can provide students with real-world insights into the applications and trends in technology. They can offer opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and even live projects, providing students with hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

Q. How does SP Jain address the skills gap in the Indian workforce through its educational programs

A. Simple—we follow what companies require. Education does not drive business; it is business that drives education. Businesses today are looking at digital transformation as central to their growth story. Digital is changing the name of the game in every industry.

Our MBA is 30% technology with a focus on decision-making, which we have now changed to data-driven decision-making. When we use data for decision-making, there is an 80% possibility of taking the right call. Companies are looking at data analytics and big data to make decisions, and our students are well-trained in doing that. Many other institutions have not been able to incorporate data analytics into their main curriculum.

Looking ahead, we are aware that Artificial Intelligence is fast becoming a game-changer in various sectors. Recognising this, we are planning to introduce new courses that will train students in using and leveraging advanced AI tools such as ChatGPT.

Most schools are wary of ChatGPT, but we view it as a new-age teacher and an invaluable resource for learning. Integration of ChatGPT in our curriculum is not just about learning to use a new tool, but it's also about adapting to a new way of thinking, analysing, and decision-making. Our students will be better prepared to handle the challenges and opportunities presented by the AI-driven future of business. Our proactive approach in embracing AI is one of the key factors that distinguish SP Jain from other business schools.

Q. What are your thoughts on India's decision to allow foreign universities to establish campuses, in India?

A. It presents both opportunities and challenges. While it may not be an easy feat to set up a full campus in a foreign country, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile consideration. India boasts a massive student market, and tapping into this can offer significant advantages.

However, it is important for foreign universities to adopt a long-term perspective when considering this. Establishing a campus in India requires careful planning, investment, and a deep understanding of the local education landscape. It is crucial to navigate the regulatory framework, adapt to the cultural context, and address the unique needs and aspirations of Indian students.

As a leading business school with Indian roots, we are open to exploring this policy and considering the possibility of partnering with foreign institutes that may be cautious about fully committing to a full-scale campus in the short run. By collaborating with foreign universities, we can leverage their expertise and resources while ensuring a smooth integration into the Indian education ecosystem.

Q. Could you provide details more about the recent announcement regarding SP Jain London School of Management acquiring New Degree Awarding Powers (NDAPs) from the Office for Students (OfS)? What does this achievement signify for the institution?

A. I have to say, with some pride, that SP Jain London is the only Indian-origin school to be able to get degree awarding powers in the UK! Many others were in line before us, but they looked at our reputation and gave us these special powers. In fact, we're only the second international university in the world to be granted full degree awarding powers. We haven't even started our operations as a b-school, still, we have the degree awarding right with us.

We now have the autonomy to establish a curriculum that is significantly more practical, relevant to industry needs, and aligned with modern practices. Moreover, we enjoy the freedom to appoint our own faculty and provide our students with engaging learning experiences at our campus, conveniently situated in the heart of London's bustling business and financial district. Lastly, upon completing the program, students graduate with a UK degree from SP Jain London School of Management.

Q. What sets SP Jain apart from other business schools in London and the UK? Why would a student choose SP Jain over other top global schools in London?

A. We have integrated SP Jain London with SP Jain School of Global Management (SP Jain Global) and the range of study options we are able to offer students as a result of this makes us truly one of a kind and very relevant to students in the UK and abroad.

Through an articulation agreement, our Indian students studying at SP Jain Global can not only transfer to London but also earn a UK degree. This arrangement offers them the best of both worlds. They can continue to experience the vibrant cities of Mumbai, Singapore, Dubai, or Sydney, while also having the option to study in London. Alternatively, they can choose to exclusively transfer to the UK and obtain a UK qualification.

The same opportunity extends to UK students at SPJ London. It is uncommon for a UK university to provide such opportunities to study in locations like Sydney, Singapore, Dubai, or Mumbai, and students are thrilled about the prospect of studying outside their home country.

The ability for both sides to collaborate and offer these exchange or articulation programs is truly exceptional. I am not aware of any other institute that offers such a wide range of choices to students.