To strengthen global academic collaboration, the Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM Raipur) and Birmingham City University (BCU) are pleased to announce a significant new partnership focused on advancing academic and research initiatives. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of IIM Raipur, and Prof. Eileen McAuliffe, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of Birmingham City University.
This partnership will focus on a range of initiatives designed to enhance teaching and research capabilities at both institutions, benefiting faculty, students, and the broader academic community. Under the agreement, IIM Raipur and Birmingham City University will promote dynamic academic exchanges, including faculty and staff collaborations to advance research, teaching methods, and professional development.
Professor Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of IIM Raipur, stated, “This collaboration between IIM Raipur and Birmingham City University marks an exciting step forward, building on our vibrant and emerging legacy. Through this partnership, we are creating significant opportunities for our students and faculty, enhancing our global presence, and paving the way for future innovation and success. The exchange programs will enrich our community, fostering a strong interconnected network that will drive our growth and excellence in the years ahead.“
Dr. Shishank Shishank, Associate Professor at Birmingham City University, remarked, “This partnership is a major stride in our mission to promote global collaboration in academia. By working closely with IIM Raipur, we aim to create new opportunities for research, teaching, and student engagement that will benefit both our institutions and the wider academic community.“
Dr. Mrunal Chavda, Assistant Professor at IIM Raipur, added, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Birmingham City University in this initiative. This partnership will not only enhance our academic programs but also contribute to the global exchange of knowledge and ideas, which is essential for addressing the complex challenges of our time.“
Students will benefit from exchange programs and study abroad opportunities, gaining international exposure that broadens their perspectives and skills. Joint research initiatives will address global challenges by leveraging the strengths of both institutions to drive innovation.
Furthermore, the partnership will include organizing lectures, seminars, and conferences to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. Both institutions will share academic resources and develop joint curricula, enriching educational offerings and exploring broader academic cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Prof. Navneet Bhatnagar, Chairperson of International Relations at IIM Raipur, expressed, “On behalf of the International Relations Office of IIM Raipur, I am delighted about this MoU with Birmingham City University, UK. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in IIM Raipur’s commitment to global business education, promising enriched opportunities for our students and faculty through shared research, exchange programs, and innovative academic initiatives.“
Professor Satyasiba Das, Dean of External Affairs at IIM Raipur, commented, “International collaboration is a critical strategic focus for IIM Raipur. With this new international partnership, we are steadily progressing toward becoming an institute of excellence with international accreditation and recognition from both industry and the academic community.“
This partnership, defined by Dr. Shishank Shishank, Associate Professor at Birmingham City University, and Dr. Mrunal Chavda, Assistant Professor at IIM Raipur, represents a milestone in strengthening the academic relationship between the two institutions. The foundation for this partnership was laid by Makhan Singh, Senior Partnership Manager – India at BCU.