Campus News

Alumni Day 2025 – Insights from the SDMIMD Alumni Network

As part of the Orientation Program for the PGDM 2025–27 batch, SDMIMD organized Alumni Day on July 5, 2025. The event brought together distinguished alumni who shared their experiences, insights, and guidance with the incoming students to help them make the most of their MBA journey.

The day featured a series of impactful invited talks:

Mr. N. Ravi Shankar (Batch 1997–99), CEO, Aim High Consulting, delivered a thought-provoking talk titled “MBA Na Milegi Dobara”. He set the context for how students can proactively embrace the next two years by adopting a multifaceted learning approach and preparing to become future-ready leaders.

Mr. Sandesh Murchy (Batch 2004–06), Human Resources Director at Oracle, addressed the audience with his session titled “Snakes & Ladders”. He spoke about career building strategies, staying relevant, and navigating the ups and downs of a professional journey.

Mrs. Namita Rajnikant (Batch 1995–97), Co-founder of Third Eye Advisory, presented “Picture Abhi Baaki Hain”, offering students a glimpse into life beyond campus. She emphasized adaptability, resilience, and the essential skills needed to thrive in high-pressure work environments.

The invited talks were followed by a panel discussion on the topic “How to Prepare for the New VUCA World with AI”.

The panel discussion featured Dr. Mohamed Minhaj, Dean – Academics, SDMIMD; Mr. Vijay Mane, President – SDMIMD Alumni Association, Serial Entrepreneur, Startup Catalyst & Investor; Mr. Praveen M.G., Chief Operating Officer, DigitalSprint AI Solutions; Mrs. Namita Rajnikant, Co-founder, Third Eye Advisory; and Mr. Sandesh Murchy, Human Resources Director, Oracle.

The engaging discussion explored the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the future of work, the need for continuous upskilling, and strategies to remain agile in a fast-changing world. The session provided students with a powerful blend of personal narratives and forward-looking advice from industry leaders.

Workshop on Discover Design Thinking for Growth

As part of the Orientation Program for the PGDM 2025-27 batch, a workshop titled "Discover Design Thinking for Growth" was conducted on July 4, 2025.

The session was led by Mr. Rakesh Babu K.L, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at Innomantra Consulting Private Limited. Through engaging activities and practical insights, Mr. Rakesh Babu introduced the students to the core principles and applications of design thinking, highlighting its importance in driving innovation and problem-solving in today’s dynamic business environment.

The interactive workshop provided the incoming batch with a creative and structured approach to thinking critically, empathizing with users, and developing innovative solutions—skills that will be integral throughout their management journey.

Inauguration of Orientation Program for PGDM 2025-27 Batch

The Orientation Program for the PGDM 2025-27 batch at SDM Institute for Management Development (SDMIMD), Mysuru, was inaugurated on July 3, 2025, at the SDMIMD Auditorium. The ceremony began with an invocation by Ms. Vidyashree P, second-year PGDM student, followed by a warm welcome address from Dr. S. Saibaba, Chairperson – Admissions.

Dr. Mohamed Minhaj, Dean – Academics, highlighted the academic expectations and learning environment at SDMIMD. Dr. (Lt Col) Prasad S. N., Director, SDMIMD, addressed the students on the institute’s vision and values, encouraging them to make the most of their learning journey.

The Chief Guest for the occasion, Shri Vijay Anandh R, Executive Director, City Union Bank, delivered an inspiring address. Drawing from his vast experience in the banking and finance sector, he shared valuable insights on industry expectations and encouraged students to stay curious, agile, and committed to lifelong learning.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. G. Srilakshminarayana, Associate Professor – Quantitative Methods, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the PGDM 2025-27 cohort.

FDP on Future-Ready Educators: Blending Pedagogy with Technology for Transformative Learning

Program Overview

In the dynamic landscape of Indian higher education, the role of faculty has evolved from being mere transmitters of knowledge to becoming facilitators of learning. With increasing access to digital tools, shifting student expectations, and the growing importance of skill-based education, it is essential for educators to continuously upgrade their teaching methods and technological competence. This Faculty Development Program (FDP) is designed to empower teachers from both undergraduate and postgraduate streams across disciplines to adopt innovative teaching techniques, integrate AI in academic processes, implement meaningful assessments, and use simulations for experiential learning.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions a holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary education system. In alignment with this vision, this FDP aims to equip the Indian teaching community with practical insights and tools that can enhance student engagement, promote critical thinking, and ensure outcome-based education. The sessions will offer a blend of pedagogical understanding and hands-on exposure to emerging trends in teaching and learning.

Program Objectives

1. To equip faculty members with innovative pedagogical techniques and digital tools, including AI applications, to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes in undergraduate and postgraduate classrooms.

2. To enable educators to design effective assessment strategies and incorporate experiential learning methods such as simulations, aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and State Education Policy of Karnataka State.

Resource Persons

Dr. Sunil M.V., is a Faculty in the area of Systems and General Management with over two decades of experience. He has contributed to academia and research in his area of expertise. As the former coordinator for SDM RCMS at SDMIMD, he significantly advanced the PhD program and promoted a research-oriented culture.

Dr. Mamta Hegde has completed her post-graduation from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalay, Indore. Doctor of Philosophy in Corporate Leadership from Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi. She is an alumnus of Indian Institute of management, Indore. Dr. Mamta Hegde has a considerable year of experience in corporate and near to two decades years of academic experience. She has worked with various prestigious management institutes.

Who can attend?
Academicians, researchers, working professionals, and individuals with an interest in teaching and learning, particularly those keen on enriching experiences through the application of technology tools for teaching and learning.

Program Fee

Rs. 2000 (Rupees two thousand only) per participant.

Please Note: 25% group discount for 3 or more participants from the same organisation/institution

Click here for Registration

Program Schedule
Time	Details
9:30 am – 9:45 am	Registration
9:45 am – 10:00 am	Inauguration
10:00 am to 11:15 am	Session 1: Innovative Pedagogy: Engaging Techniques for Effective Teaching This session will explore the evolving nature of pedagogy in the education system. It will cover various learner-centered approaches. The session will also emphasize the need to adapt pedagogy based on student needs, learning outcomes, and course goals.
11:15 am to 11:45 am	Tea / Group Photo Session
11:45 am to 12.45 pm	Session 2: Towards Sustainability: Harnessing AI for digital Academic Content and Assignment Design This session will introduce AI tools that can assist in generating content, creating quizzes, and designing engaging assignments. The session will include practical examples of various AI tools. Ethical considerations in using AI in education will also be discussed.
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm	Lunch
2:00 pm – 3:15 pm	Session 3: Assessment and Evaluation This session will highlight the importance of aligning assessment methods with learning outcomes. The discussion will include the challenges faced in evaluating conceptual understanding and practical application, especially in large or diverse classrooms, and how these can be addressed effectively
3:15 pm to 3:30 pm	Tea Break
3:30 pm to 4:45 pm	Session 4: Enhancing Learning through Simulations This session will introduce the concept of simulations in teaching. It will guide participants on selecting, designing, and implementing simulation.
4:45 pm to 5:00 pm	Valedictory and Certificate Distribution

Quick Contact:
Dr. Sunil M.V
Mobile: 99864 39832 | Tel. No. +91-821-2429722 Extn.1004

Dr. Mamta Hegde
Mobile: 98443 30228 | Tel. No. +91-821-2429722 Extn.1006

Email: mdp@sdmimd.ac.in

Dr. Hema Harsha Delivers Session on Indian Business Law and Intellectual Property Rights

Dr.  Hema Harsha, Associate Professor at Birla Institute of Management, Bengaluru, delivered a comprehensive session exploring key areas of Indian business law for the PGDM students. She began with the Indian Contract Act, 1872, highlighting the essentials of enforceable agreements, the elements of a valid contract, and legal remedies available in case of breach.

Dr. Harsha then provided an overview of the Companies Act, focusing on company formation, the significance of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, directors’ responsibilities, and the legal rights of shareholders. She emphasized the importance of well-drafted legal documentation—including contracts, resolutions, and constitutional documents—for ensuring corporate clarity and compliance.

The session concluded with an in-depth discussion on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), covering trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial designs, and trade secrets. She explained the procedures for registration, the scope of protection, enforcement mechanisms, and the strategic role of IPR in protecting innovation and enhancing business value.

The session offered students valuable legal perspectives relevant to the business world and reinforced the importance of legal literacy for future managers and entrepreneurs.

Shri. C.K. Sabareeshan Delivers an Insightful Session on ESG and the Role of Independent Directors

On June 28, 2025, Shri. C.K. Sabareeshan, Independent Director at BPL Ltd. and Panasonic Appliances Ltd., delivered an engaging session for the PGDM 2024–26 batch on the topic “ESG – Responsibilities and Role of Independent Directors.”

Shri. Sabareeshan elaborated on the crucial role independent directors play in upholding ethical governance, providing constructive oversight, and acting in good faith. He discussed ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting standards and highlighted the practical challenges organizations face while implementing ESG frameworks.

Drawing from real-life corporate cases such as ICICI, Wells Fargo, and Satyam, he emphasized the importance of sustainable business practices. The session shed light on the relevance of ESG in managing carbon footprints, waste, and renewable energy, while aligning business strategies with stakeholder expectations.

The session offered students valuable insights into how corporate governance and ESG go hand-in-hand in today’s dynamic business environment.

Workshop on Stress Management and Work-Life Balance by Dr. Ashish Mohan

Dr. Ashish Mohan, Founder and Principal Consultant at Interactive Management Development and Fellow – BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt, Berlin, Germany, conducted an insightful workshop for the PGDM 2024–26 batch on the topic "Stress Management and Work-Life Balance" on June 27, 2025.

The workshop featured interactive discussions centered around real-life workplace challenges, enabling students to grasp the critical importance of maintaining mental well-being in a professional setting. Dr. Mohan emphasized the increasing relevance of work-life balance in today’s demanding and fast-paced corporate environment.

A key highlight of the session was a case study involving a manager navigating toxic work culture, stress, and burnout. This case offered students a realistic view of how such challenges can affect both professional performance and personal health.

The session also included a personality assessment exercise, helping participants gain deeper self-awareness. Dr. Mohan concluded the workshop with practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining focus, and building resilience through discipline, motivation, and self-reflection.

Workshop on Value-Based Selling by Mr. Varun Kumar, Intel Corporation

Mr. Varun Kumar, Segment Lead – Edge Computing Group at Intel Corporation, Bengaluru, conducted an engaging workshop for the PGDM 2024–26 batch on the topic "Practical Approach to Value-Based Selling with Real-Life Case Studies" on June 26, 2025.

Drawing from his rich experience in sales, Mr. Varun shared valuable insights into the real-world challenges of engaging with customers and building a successful career in sales. He emphasized the importance of a practical approach to value-based selling and discussed key pricing methodologies that drive sales effectiveness.

A key highlight of the session was his introduction to the MEDDPICC sales qualification framework, equipping students with a structured tool for professional sales strategy and execution.

The workshop was highly informative and helped bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice, offering students a clear understanding of modern sales approaches and value-driven client engagement.

Redefining HRM for Bharat @100: A Dialogue on Inclusive and Agile Workplaces at SDMIMD

On June 21, 2025, Dr. Mousumi Sengupta, Dean – International Relations & Professor – HRM & OB at SDMIMD, delivered an insightful talk on “Inclusive, Agile, Digital: Redefining HRM for Bharat @100” The session emphasized the need for a transformative HR approach aligned with India's evolving workforce and digital future.

The talk was followed by a panel discussion on “Building a Culture of Psychological Safety: The Role of HR Team and Leaders” featuring:

Dr. Sunil MV, Assistant Professor – Systems & General Management, SDMIMD
Mr. Pavan Kumar, Alumnus, SDMIMD
Mr. Goutham B M, Head – HRIR, Radico
The discussion was moderated by Mr. Rinto C.A, PGDM student at SDMIMD.

The session shed light on the strategic role of HR in fostering inclusive, resilient, and psychologically safe workplaces in modern organizations.

Driving Digital Transformation through Reverse Mentoring: Insights at SDMIMD

On June 20, 2025, Dr.Nanda Kishore Shetty, Associate Professor – Marketing at SDMIMD, delivered an engaging talk on “Application of Reverse Mentoring at Corporate India with Special Reference to Tata Steel – Driving Digital Transformation at Tata Steel’s Marketing & Sales Department: A Change Initiative.” The session highlighted how reverse mentoring can serve as a catalyst for digital transformation in traditional business environments.

This was followed by a panel discussion on “Driving Digital Transformation in Sales & Marketing in Large Indian Conglomerates” featuring perspectives from:

Dr. Keerthan Raj, Associate Professor – Marketing, SDMIMD
Mr. Shamanth Nanda, Alumnus, SDMIMD
Mrs. Ashwini B. Thammaiah, Country Head & Board Member, iSOCRATES Inc. & MADTECH.AI Inc.
The discussion was moderated by Ms. Vidyashree P, PGDM student at SDMIMD.

The session offered rich insights into how legacy firms can embrace digital tools and innovative practices to stay competitive in evolving markets.