Professor Dr Chakrapani of Global Institute of Business Studies talks at detail about the institute's innovative teaching approaches in an interview with Shiksha.com. He goes into great depth regarding industry-based events and CSR initiatives, with students taking responsibility for ensuring that the events and activities run smoothly.

Dr Chakrapani has over 24 years of rich industry experience. He is presently associated with Radiaunt Critical Solutions as a Senior Sales Manager. He is also a Mindray partner and is on the board of Nebutech as a Business Advisor

Read the complete interview below.

Q: What are the salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by your college? How does this differ from others?

A: GIBS always believes in innovative teaching methodologies. We try to give students as many opportunities as we can to hone their skills and be prepared to become future leaders. It begins right from the first day. We involve students in a variety of industry-based events and CSR activities, with students taking on the responsibility for the smooth operation of events and activities. We regularly conduct live sessions with industry experts to give our students practical exposure. Along with live sessions, students also get access to real-time case studies. We ensure that all students can take up an internship in the subject of their choice. With all these, students have access to IRE Labs, where they can seed their creative ideas and explore new avenues.

Q: How do they differ from others?

A: We are different, because we bring a difference. We not only provide management education, but we mold our students to fit into highly competitive corporate jobs and startups. We help them network with top industry professionals to get valuable input. We also allow them to work while studying. This collaboration helps students apply what they learn at their workplace.

Q: How are you preparing your students to be industry-ready?

A: Mindset is the key. Everyone has potential, but there are very few people who recognize it and are also able to use it. We refine the mindsets of our students and strive to bring them to their true potential. We especially develop those capabilities that can be applied in the industry and on the job. Apart from this, we give them opportunities to connect directly with industry experts. Also, there is a weekly workshop to enhance the skills. All these contribute to preparing the students for the industry.

Q: What are the qualities you are looking for in student applicants? What qualities do they need to do well in your course?

A: As I said, every student is special. We try to see if a student is ready to recognise his own strengths and take advantage of the opportunities available. We see a very good glimpse of this in their application. Apart from this, we test their attitude in the personal interview. We are always ready to take up the responsibility of grooming the student who is ready to take the responsibility for his success.

Q: What qualities do they need to do well in your course?

A: The best student in life is the one who is always eager to learn. Those who are ready to walk the extra mile for their success. We'd like to see the same hunger and aspiration in the students. No talent can be properly identified without practical applications, that's why our main focus is on practical training. We put students in an environment where they emerge as better leaders every time. So, what a student has to do is to keep up with his learning appetite and take advantage of the opportunities that are being offered.

Q: How do you ensure that your course curriculum is up-to-date and meets industry requirements?     

A: We do not just educate the students, but we train and mold them for success. We always provide ready products to the industry in the form of students. We are successful in it because we understand the industry. We keep a close watch on this ever-growing, progressive industry. Our R & D team always tries to improve the curriculum, keeping in mind the changes and requirements of the industry. Apart from this, our global alumni network regularly gives us input, which helps us a lot.

Q: Is your college receptive to innovation, technology, science, and entrepreneurship? How? Could you cite some examples of these?

A: The college has dedicated IRE Labs. The students can use this facility to innovate, explore, implement, and deploy solutions. We regularly invite industry guests and give our students an opportunity to communicate with them. Many students who come up with innovative ideas get a chance to turn their ideas into reality. Industry experts and our in-house mentors work together to make ideas come to life.