Bridging Borders: IIM Indore Signs MoU with Norway and China to Enhance Global Education Landscape
IIM Indore continues to expand its global footprint with the recent signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Kristiania University College in Norway and Soochow University in China. These collaborations have elevated its network to 60 partner institutions across 24 countries. These strategic collaborations emphasize IIM Indore’s commitment to creating robust academic partnerships that offer enriched learning and research opportunities.
The first MoU was signed by Prof. Himanshu Rai, Director, IIM Indore, alongside Dr. Kristi Bache, Pro-rector of Research and Artistic Development at Kristiania University College. The second MoU was signed by Prof. Rai and Prof. Bo Feng, Dean of the Business School at Soochow University. Prof. Rai expressed enthusiasm about both collaborations.
Signing the MoU with Soochow University, he said, “Our vision aligns closely with that of Soochow University, which is to foster innovative and responsible business leaders while integrating the concept of sustainable development into our business knowledge. This partnership not only strengthens our ties with this esteemed institution but also enhances our ability to cultivate globally aware leaders.”
Soochow University, founded in 1900, aligns with IIM Indore’s commitment to global academic excellence. The Business School of Soochow University, located in Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, currently hosts more than 3,500 students and offers robust programmes across various fields, including Applied Economics and Business Administration, both of which are recognized as key disciplines in Jiangsu Province. The school is structured into seven departments and provides nine undergraduate programmes, alongside doctoral offerings.
Prof. Bo Feng of Soochow University highlighted that their core values—Authenticity, Accountability, Appreciation, and Advancement—align well with IIM Indore’s vision of nurturing socially conscious and innovative business leaders. She noted, “Our collaboration will enhance the educational journeys of our students and faculty by creating pathways for knowledge exchange and joint research projects. Together, we aim to contribute to the high-quality development of our respective regions while addressing global challenges.”
The MoU with Kristiania University College aims to promote academic exchanges and collaborative research, encouraging the exchange of faculty and students, as well as creating opportunities for joint research in areas of shared interest. Kristiania University College is one of Norway’s oldest private educational institutions, established in 1914. It offers a practice-oriented learning environment with over 16,000 students and emphasizes fields like marketing, management, creativity, and health.
Prof. Rai stated, “IIM Indore’s mission to bridge academia and real-world application resonates strongly with the values held by Kristiania University College. We are eager to learn from their experiences in sustainable development and innovative practices, which will enhance our educational offerings.” He further noted that these collaborations would enrich academic experiences through knowledge sharing, participation in exhibitions, lectures, and symposia, and the exploration of joint programmes and dual degree opportunities.
Dr. Kristi Bache, from Kristiania University College, expressed her excitement for the collaboration, saying, “This partnership opens exciting possibilities for both institutions. By leveraging India’s strength in technology and innovation alongside Norway’s focus on equality and high IT literacy, we can create mutual benefits that enrich our academic communities.” She emphasized that the collaboration would facilitate deeper understanding and idea exchange between the institutions.
These newly signed MoUs represent a significant milestone in IIM Indore’s journey to becoming a global educational powerhouse. Through these collaborations, IIM Indore not only enhances its own educational framework but also commits to the broader vision of facilitating innovative and responsible business leadership.
As the institute continues to evolve and expand its global collaborations, it remains dedicated to delivering world-class education, cultivating leaders who are prepared to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world.