Bhubaneswar, Nov 3 (UNI) The Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur (IIM Sambalpur) has set a new benchmark in value-based education by introducing a community-driven learning platform that brings together professors, professionals, and senior citizens to mentor and inspire high school students.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Sambalpur Public Library (SPL) under the institute’s flagship “Grooming Students Programme,” aims to foster holistic growth among students of the Sambalpur Municipality.
It marks a significant step in IIM Sambalpur’s mission to nurture ethical, technological, and entrepreneurial skills among young learners.
Adding a unique intergenerational dimension, senior citizens have also volunteered their time and expertise to guide students, enriching the programme with their experience and wisdom.
As part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IIM Sambalpur and SPL, the initiative seeks to democratize education by extending learning beyond the classroom.
Every Sunday, around 45 experts—including faculty members from IIM Sambalpur and other institutions—conduct interactive sessions on topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), psychological well-being, and ethical leadership.
So far, nearly 40 sessions have been organized, covering themes like ethics, morality, culture, and technology to promote the students’ all-round development and social awareness.
The collaboration also ensures shared access to library resources and open digital learning platforms, promoting equitable education for all.
A Certificate Awarding Ceremony was recently held at the IIM Sambalpur campus to recognize the achievements of participating students and mentors. Distinguished personalities such as Prof. Hrusikesh Senapty, Dr. Raseswari Panigrahi, and Dr. Narayani Panda were conferred with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their exceptional service to society.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, highlighted the institute’s evolving role in shaping inclusive education.
“IIM Sambalpur has redefined management education through a decade of groundbreaking initiatives—from being the first in the world to introduce AI-enabled classrooms to developing global models shared with institutions in the U.S., South Korea, and China.
Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and the Prime Minister’s vision of a self-reliant nation, we are also empowering grassroots communities—from Sambalpuri handloom women entrepreneurs to tribal women leaders in Koraput,” he said.
Commending the effort, Deepak Malviya, National Vice President of Loksevak Mandal, remarked,
“True management education goes beyond business—it builds character and nation-builders. When rooted in ethics, spirituality, and morality, students don’t just build careers; they help make India a Vishwa Guru.”
Prof. Aditya Prasad Padhi, Chairman of Sambalpur Public Library, added that nearly 50 experts volunteer their time and resources to teach students free of cost.
“This initiative goes beyond academics, addressing emotional well-being, stress management, and life skills to shape adolescent minds,” he said.
The Grooming Students Programme stands as a movement toward inclusive and sustainable learning, reflecting IIM Sambalpur’s broader vision of nation-building through youth empowerment, ethical leadership, and community-driven education.
UNI DP BM