- 160 seasoned professionals with 7.5 years’ average experience begin leadership journey
- Diverse cohort spanning BFSI, consulting, defence, tech and more fuels peer learning edge
- Global exposure, real-world case pedagogy and strategic depth define programme strength
- Deans highlight diversity, application-led learning and leadership readiness in uncertain times
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, APR 15
In a powerful convergence of experience, ambition and diversity, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) inducted 160 accomplished professionals into the 21st batch of its prestigious One-Year MBA-PGPX programme, setting the stage for the next generation of global business leaders.
With an average work experience of 7 years and 6 months and representation across industries—from BFSI and consulting to defence, healthcare and aviation—the cohort reflects the evolving face of leadership in a rapidly changing global economy.
Diversity drives learning, says Dean
Addressing the incoming batch, Professor Satish Deodhar, Dean (Faculty), underscored the strength of diversity: “This year’s batch represents a rich mix of participants from diverse academic disciplines, including both engineering and non-engineering backgrounds, as well as professionals from several industries. Such diversity is a great strength of the programme, as it brings varied perspectives into the classroom and enriches peer learning. In today’s rapidly changing and uncertain world, such opportunities to strengthen one’s leadership and managerial capabilities are invaluable. I hope you will make the most of this journey.”
Learning beyond classrooms
Professor Diptesh Ghosh, Dean (Programmes), highlighted the programme’s distinctive approach: “Your batch possesses people from various industries and with significant work experience. While you will learn a lot within the classroom and from our faculty, there will be many opportunities to learn from your peers as well. Another unique takeaway from IIMA’s PGPX is our commitment towards the application of knowledge, aligned with the Institute’s motto. Throughout this programme, a majority of your classes will prompt you to apply theoretical knowledge to both uncertain and ambiguous real-world situations. You will learn the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches and learn how to tackle challenges from diverse perspectives.”
Leadership for a disrupted world
Welcoming the cohort, Professor Debjit Roy, Chairperson, MBA-PGPX, emphasised the programme’s strategic relevance: “Today, discussions on global disruptions are taking the centre stage in boardrooms. In such uncertain times, IIMA’s MBA-PGPX not only focuses on career progression from mid-level to senior and top leadership roles but also equips you with functional depth and strategic decision-making skills. The PGPX structure is periodically reviewed, and new courses and case studies are introduced to address business challenges. The rigorous programme structure sharpens clarity, instils purpose, and empowers you to lead decisively during unpredictable junctures.”
A cohort that mirrors the modern economy
The 2026–27 batch comprises:
- 114 male (72%) and 46 female (28%) participants
- 36.43% with international exposure
- Representation across BFSI, consulting, energy, IT, manufacturing, defence, e-commerce, healthcare and more
Sectors like BFSI, consulting and energy lead participation, reflecting current industry demand for skilled leadership.
The road ahead
With a carefully curated three-day orientation, the programme begins a transformative journey—blending rigorous academics, global perspectives and real-world problem-solving.
At its core, the MBA-PGPX continues to serve as a launchpad for high-impact leadership, equipping professionals to navigate complexity, drive innovation and lead with clarity in an unpredictable world.
