IIM-A Launches Leadership and Strategic Thinking Program for Visually Impaired Professionals

Organized by IIMA’s Centre for Management of Health Services (CMHS) in partnership with the Blind People’s Association and Dr. Lal Path Labs, this three-day program is designed to enhance leadership and strategic thinking skills among visually impaired professionals.

The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has successfully initiated its third edition of the ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ program, aimed at empowering professionals with visual impairments. The program, which kicked off with a special ceremony, received enthusiastic support from key figures such as Professor Bharat Bhasker, Director of IIMA; Professor Satish Deodhar, Dean (Faculty) at IIMA; Professor Rajesh Chandwani, Faculty Chair for the program; Rajesh Singh, Head of CSR at Dr. Lal PathLabs; and Bhushan Punani, General Secretary of Blind People’s Association (BPA), Ahmedabad.

Unique Initiative for the Visually Impaired

Organized by IIMA’s Centre for Management of Health Services (CMHS) in partnership with the Blind People’s Association and Dr. Lal Path Labs, this three-day program is designed to enhance leadership and strategic thinking skills among visually impaired professionals. The program brings together a diverse group of 30 blind professionals from sectors like IT, government, and banking. By equipping participants with skills in leadership and strategy, the program aims to foster personal and professional growth, preparing them for senior roles within their respective organizations.

In his opening speech, Professor Bharat Bhasker emphasized the importance of creating a more inclusive society that accommodates individuals with visual impairments. He urged participants to become advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities and work towards dismantling the sociocultural barriers that restrict opportunities for the visually challenged. Professor Bhasker highlighted that, “Every single person has the potential to do great things,” stressing the need to unlock this potential by fostering an environment where individuals of all abilities can thrive.

Step Toward Fostering Leadership in the Visually Impaired

Bhushan Punani, General Secretary of BPA, expressed his gratitude to IIMA for running the program for the third consecutive year. He reflected on the positive impact of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, which has opened up more employment opportunities for people with visual impairments. He noted, “This program is a major step forward toward fostering leadership in the area of vision impairment,” adding that many previous participants have already become leaders within their organizations. Mr. Punani stressed that more such individuals are needed to challenge societal stereotypes and showcase the competence and capabilities of the visually impaired.

Program Highlights: Sessions and Success Stories

The program features an array of sessions designed to hone leadership and management skills, including topics such as ‘Leader vs Manager,’ ‘Financial Decision-Making,’ ‘Managing Digital Transformation,’ ‘AI & Technology,’ and ‘Mindfulness & Emotional Stability.’ Participants will also hear inspiring success stories from visually impaired individuals who have excelled in their professions, providing a motivational backdrop for their own growth.

Empowering Participants for Senior Roles

Professor Rajesh Chandwani, Faculty Chair for the program, outlined its objectives: To equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to assume senior roles in their organizations, while also focusing on personal development. He explained, “The goal is to ensure participants understand the various functions of management, enabling them to qualify for leadership positions.” This emphasis on self-growth and functional expertise is intended to ensure that participants leave the program better prepared for career advancement.

Voices from the Participants: Aspiring Leaders for Change

Among the participants, Heena Patel, a physiotherapist from Bhuj, Gujarat, and Dilip Chauhan, Vice Principal at Kendra Vidyalaya in Vadodara, shared their enthusiasm for the program. Ms. Patel expressed her desire to change societal perceptions of visually impaired individuals, stating, “I want to change the perception of people towards visually impaired individuals, and I am looking forward to all the learning in these three days.” Chauhan added, “I expect to acquire skills for adapting to and overcoming difficult work situations, and to make society consider the perspective of visually challenged people.”

Future of Visually Impaired Leadership

The third edition of the ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ program at IIMA marks a significant effort in empowering visually impaired professionals to take on leadership roles. By providing the training and development needed to challenge societal norms, the program enables participants to grow both personally and professionally. As these professionals refine their skills and learn new ones, they are poised to become inspiring leaders who will help create a world where individuals, regardless of their ability to see, can hold leadership positions and make a meaningful impact in society.

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