In a landmark move for higher education in India, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur has announced the launch of its first-ever undergraduate programmes, marking a new era for one of Odisha’s premier academic institutions. On Friday, IIM Sambalpur introduced two innovative four-year, fully residential Bachelor of Science (BSc) programmes — one in Management and Public Policy, and the other in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Both courses are designed in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to interdisciplinary, flexible, and future-oriented education.

The BSc in Management and Public Policy focuses on cultivating leaders who are well-versed in national development priorities, including sustainability, grassroots development, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks. This programme aims to bridge the existing gap between policy design and real-world practice, equipping students with the tools to make evidence-based, socially conscious decisions.

The BSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, on the other hand, has been co-designed with industry leaders to nurture India’s digital and technological capabilities. This programme emphasizes ethical AI development, global digital competitiveness, and deep data analysis. Both programmes are rooted in innovation, critical reasoning, and integrity, aiming to produce well-rounded professionals who can adapt to fast-evolving global challenges.

What sets these programmes apart is their flexibility. Under the NEP 2020 structure, students will have multiple entry and exit points throughout the programme. They can obtain a certificate after completing one year, a diploma after two years, a degree after three years, and an honours degree after completing all four years. This allows learners to pursue lifelong learning in a modular format that adapts to their academic or career needs.

The launch was commemorated by a high-profile roundtable discussion on the theme “Global Capability Centres (GCCs) as Engines of Innovation for Global Enterprises.” The event featured insights from several distinguished figures. Bramhanand Jha, Vice President of the National eGovernance Division (MeitY), highlighted the transformation of GCCs from being cost centres to becoming innovation hubs, noting that institutions like IIM Sambalpur are developing the talent and mindset needed to support a digital-first economy.

Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, underscored the significance of this launch, describing it as a pioneering step that aligns closely with the vision of NEP 2020. He emphasized that these programmes will produce future-ready leaders and innovators. Lt Col Piyush Shukla, Director (JEE) at the National Testing Agency (NTA), praised the institute’s initiative as a timely response to India’s growing need for talent in innovation-driven sectors such as GCCs. Rajesh Kumar, Director (CUET), also from NTA, added that with entrance exams like CUET democratizing access to higher education, future-focused programmes like these are vital to reaching young talent across India.

Admissions for the BSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence will be conducted through JEE Main, while the BSc in Management and Public Policy will accept candidates via the CUET, both national-level entrance exams administered by the NTA. The application process for both programmes will begin in June 2025, and the first academic session will commence in September 2025.

With the launch of these two undergraduate programmes, IIM Sambalpur not only expands its academic offerings but also takes a bold step toward reshaping the landscape of higher education in India. These programmes integrate academic excellence with practical skills, ethical values, and global relevance. They reinforce IIM Sambalpur’s commitment to creating entrepreneurial, socially responsible, and globally competent leaders who can drive transformative change in society and industry alike.