- Fourth edition of ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ initiative fosters inclusivity and strategic empowerment for visually-challenged professionals
- Programme curated with Blind People’s Association focuses on leadership, AI, macroeconomics, and technology access
- 28 participants from across India join immersive three-day sessions led by Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad faculty
- IIMA champions inclusive education and leadership development through hands-on mentorship and strategic insight
- Participants and professors alike gain transformative perspectives from the experience
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAR 6
Carrying forward its vision of inclusive education and empowerment, the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad inaugurated the fourth edition of its ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ programme for visually-challenged people, in collaboration with the Blind People’s Association (BPA).
Bhusan Punani, general secretary, Blind People’s Association – NE photo
The three-day immersive learning initiative, held from March 6–8, 2026, welcomed 28 participants from diverse professional fields including education, government, IT services and the BFSI sector. The programme aims to equip visually-challenged professionals with leadership, management and strategic thinking capabilities to help them take on senior roles in their respective domains.
The inauguration was attended by Bharat Bhasker, Director of IIMA; Rajesh Chandwani, Faculty Chair of the programme; Bhushan Punani, General Secretary of BPA; and Kinnari Desai, Deputy Director at BPA.
Inclusive Leadership for a New India
The programme features a dynamic mix of sessions on Strategic Leadership, AI for Managerial Decision-Making, Macroeconomic Concepts and the Indian Economy, and Technology for the Visually-Challenged, among others. Each session is designed to develop both strategic mindset and managerial agility.
Beyond Sight, Toward Strategy: Faculty and participants engage in immersive sessions on leadership and AI-driven decision-making at IIMA. – NE photo
Addressing the participants, Bharat Bhasker said: “Within four years, this leadership programme has truly grown. Today, I can confidently say that we have a truly national population representing several parts of India, all in one room. IIMA takes immense pride in initiating and conducting this inclusive programme year on year to make a difference in the lives of people. The ability to lead is inherent amongst all of us, and this programme serves as an opportunity for everyone to surmount their inner barriers and learn how to strengthen their leadership capacity, strategic vision, and organisational skills for real-world scenarios.”
He further noted that the learning exchange goes both ways: “Our professors gain new perspectives thanks to the participants, which is extremely important while making decisions at various levels.”
Building Bridges Through Vision and Inclusion
Bhushan Punani emphasised the transformative impact of previous programme editions, sharing stories of participants who advanced to leadership positions in major organisations.
“For the differently-abled, there are five pillars of strength and growth: technology, assistive devices, access to higher education, laws protecting and uplifting the differently-abled, and inclusivity. As India continues making strides across all these pillars, I would like to recognise the programme at IIMA for serving as a benchmark of inclusivity. This programme is a bridge between visually-impaired individuals and leadership – something we are yet to see more of. As participants, everyone can unlock their leadership potential during these three days.”
Empowering Visionaries: The fourth edition of IIMA’s unique leadership programme redefines inclusivity in management education for visually-challenged professionals. – NE photo
Rajesh Chandwani reflected on the programme’s enduring impact: “Over the years, this programme has received great recognition from participants, who thoroughly enjoy the sessions and learnings. Simultaneously, the lessons imparted help them cultivate a strong foundation of self-belief, giving them the confidence to chase new horizons, apply for senior leadership opportunities, and realise the potential within them that awaits to be unlocked.”
Fostering Vision Without Barriers
The ‘Leadership and Strategic Thinking’ initiative exemplifies IIMA’s continuing effort to expand access, inclusion and empowerment. By integrating cutting-edge management education with empathy and innovation, the institute sets a benchmark in inclusive leadership development.
As the participants embark on this journey, the programme reinforces one core message — true leadership is not about what one sees, but how one envisions change.
