IIMA launches 4th leadership programme for visually-challenged people
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has inaugurated the fourth edition of its ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ programme aimed at visually-challenged individuals. This initiative, which runs from March 6 to 8, 2026, welcomes 28 participants from diverse professional backgrounds.
Empowering Future Leaders
This specially curated programme is conducted in collaboration with the Blind People’s Association (BPA) Ahmedabad. Its primary goal is to empower visually-challenged professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to take on leadership, strategic thinking, and management roles. Participants come from various fields, including education, government services, Information Technology (IT), and Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI).
Programme Curriculum
Over the course of three days, participants will engage in specially-curated sessions led by IIMA faculty. These sessions are designed to build leadership strategies and enhance understanding of management dynamics, both personal and professional. The curriculum includes a variety of topics, such as:
- Strategic Leadership
- AI for Managerial Decision-Making
- Macroeconomic Concepts and the Indian Economy
- Technology for the Visually Challenged
This holistic approach aims to provide participants with a comprehensive outlook on leadership and management.
A Vision for Inclusive Leadership
During the inauguration, Bharat Bhasker, Director of IIMA, addressed the participants, stating, “Within four years, this leadership programme has truly grown. Today, I can confidently say that we have a truly national population representing several parts of India, all in one room.” He emphasized IIMA’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of empowering individuals to overcome personal barriers and enhance their leadership capabilities.
Bhasker also noted that the faculty members gain valuable insights from the participants, enriching their teaching and decision-making processes.
Impact and Inclusivity
Bhushan Punani, General Secretary of BPA, highlighted the significant impact previous editions of the programme have had on participants. He shared success stories of visually-challenged professionals who have ascended to senior leadership roles after attending the course. “For the differently-abled, there are five pillars of strength and growth: technology, assistive devices, access to higher education, laws protecting and uplifting the differently-abled, and inclusivity,” he explained.
Punani recognized the IIMA programme as a benchmark for inclusivity, serving as a vital link between visually-impaired individuals and leadership opportunities. He encouraged participants to unlock their leadership potential during the three-day immersion.
Cultivating Confidence and Potential
Rajesh Chandwani, Faculty Chair for the programme, reflected on the positive feedback from participants over the years. He noted that the programme not only helps participants build a strong foundation of self-belief but also inspires them to pursue new opportunities in leadership. “The lessons imparted help them cultivate a strong foundation of self-belief, giving them the confidence to chase new horizons,” he remarked.
Conclusion
The fourth edition of the ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ programme at IIMA represents a significant step toward inclusivity and empowerment for visually-challenged professionals. By providing them with essential leadership and management skills, the programme aims to foster a new generation of leaders who can navigate the complexities of the modern workforce.
Note: This article is based on information provided by Asianet News Central and has not been edited by the staff.
