IIM Vizag plans to introduce AI-focused UG programme
Visakhapatnam: In response to the evolving landscape of management education and the increasing significance of emerging technologies, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Vizag is set to introduce a four-year undergraduate honours programme focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation. This initiative marks a significant milestone as it would be the first undergraduate programme offered by the institute.
Expansion of Educational Offerings
In recent years, several Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have broadened their educational scope by launching standalone undergraduate programmes alongside their traditional Master of Business Administration (MBA) courses. Notable institutions such as IIM Bangalore, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Sambalpur, and IIM Sirmaur have already introduced Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS), and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) programmes in fields like data science, digital business, and public policy.
This trend follows the precedent set by IIM Indore, which pioneered the country’s first undergraduate-linked management programme (Integrated Programme in Management – IPM) in 2011.
Details from the Convocation Ceremony
During the 10th annual convocation held on April 25, 2026, IIM Vizag’s director, Prof. M Chandrasekhar, announced plans for a phase two expansion of the institute. This expansion aims to increase the residential student capacity by 300 in the upcoming academic year and by another 300 in 2028, ultimately raising the total on-campus strength to 1,400 students. Prof. Chandrasekhar emphasized that the additional infrastructure will support the launch of both a two-year postgraduate programme and the new four-year undergraduate honours programme in AI and innovation.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The convocation featured Zarin Daruwala, the group chief executive officer of PL Capital, as the chief guest. She addressed the graduating students, encouraging them to view demanding bosses as opportunities for growth. “Step out beyond your comfort zones and try to embrace the changes. Growth begins when individuals stop clinging to familiarity and aim higher,” she stated.
Drawing from her professional experiences, Daruwala highlighted the importance of attention to detail and humility in leadership. “Such experiences show that achievement should be grounded in modesty. Being placed in unfamiliar, high-pressure situations can be difficult but helps develop problem-solving skills, independence, and growth,” she added. She advised students to remain grounded in ethics and values while continuing to learn and adapt in their careers.
The Role of AI in the Future Workforce
Hari S Bhartia, chairperson of the Board of Governors at IIM Vizag and founder of the Jubilant Bhartia Group, also spoke at the event. He noted that students are graduating at a pivotal moment when artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India is evolving. “Technology is no longer only replacing human effort but is beginning to support and, in some cases, replicate human thinking,” Bhartia explained.
He emphasized that as AI becomes capable of performing tasks such as writing reports, building financial models, and analyzing markets, the focus for future professionals should shift from merely acquiring knowledge to developing critical thinking, questioning skills, and decision-making abilities. “In a world where answers are easily available, judgment becomes more important. As AI becomes more powerful, human qualities such as integrity, empathy, and the ability to build trust will become more valuable,” he stated.
Bhartia concluded by asserting that in a landscape where intelligence is widely accessible, success will be defined by clarity of thinking, courage in decision-making, and integrity.
Conclusion
The introduction of an AI-focused undergraduate programme at IIM Vizag represents a significant step towards integrating modern technological advancements into management education. As institutions adapt to the demands of the evolving job market, programmes like these will equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest announcements and developments from IIM Vizag as of April 2026.
