IIM Ahmedabad to establish First International Extension Center in UAE

Ahmedabad: Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad and BRS Ventures of UAE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish IIMA’s first Extension Center in Dubai. The UAE Extension Center will begin with Executive Education Programs that are relevant to the region and will include both open learning and customized training programs.

IIMA will provide the academic and training expertise while BRS Ventures will facilitate the required support including infrastructure, industry links and logistics. IIMA’s parent campus in Ahmedabad that was established through active partnership with Harvard Business School almost six decades back, started with Executive Education Programs using Case Study Method and cases relevant to business. These Executive Education programs have consistently grown and remain much in demand across industries and corporates. In a phased manner, depending on response and other factors, IIMA–BRS Ventures will consider rolling out other programs in UAE of longer duration. These programs will be globally relevant to ensure that the cohort being trained is not restricted to any region and the learning environment is in an international cultural setting.

Speaking on the occasion Prof. Errol D’Souza, Director of IIMA said, “For an institute with global footprint of alumni, it is important to have physical presence beyond the national borders. UAE has been the gateway and hub for MENA region’s business connect with the world. We are very happy to partner with BRS Ventures, given their distinguished service to UAE as well as deep understanding of the region and its priorities. This will help IIMA in implementing the planned activities and programs successfully.”

Dr. BR Shetty, Chairman, BRS Ventures shared, “Education has always been close to my heart. It is my honor to bring IIMA, the jewel of India, to UAE. The IIMA Extension Center will immediately benefit UAE and MENA regions’ economies, public policies, executive skills and industry overall. Later when longer duration programs are launched, the graduating students will be entitled for preferred employment at our own diversified businesses, while they will always remain of great interest to other government and non-government businesses in UAE and internationally”.