Fourteenth Edition of CERE Concludes at IIM Indore

The fourteenth edition of the International Conference on Excellence in Research and Education (CERE) was held at IIM Indore on May 31-June 02, 2024. The three-day event was marked by a dynamic array of paper presentations and enriching workshops, further solidifying the conference’s reputation as a premier platform for academic exchange and innovation. Scholars from various disciplines came together to share their latest research findings, fostering a collaborative environment that spanned the globe.

On the successful completion of the conference, IIM Indore’s Director, Prof. Himanshu Rai, emphasized the importance of addressing contemporary issues through academic discourse. “As educational institutions, we have a unique responsibility to curate topics for deliberation that not only attract the best and most innovative minds but also stimulate profound, thought-provoking discussions on critical subjects like environmental, social, and governance (ESG). Education has the power to bring about significant change by equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex global challenges. Our youth and scholars are at the forefront of this transformation; their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are crucial in driving sustainable development and ethical practices in today’s world”, he said. He applauded the CERE Organizing Team and students for their dedication and hard work in making this event a success. “IIM Indore is committed to fostering an environment where academic excellence and practical relevance intersect, driving impactful research and meaningful dialogues. Through events like CERE, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders to make informed decisions that positively impact society and the environment,” he said.

Prof. Manish Popli, Chair – Doctoral Programme in Managemet (DPM), said that the theme of this year’s conference focused on ESG value creation in the context of climate crises and international conflicts. These issues have become critical topics in the business world. “Many businesses are grappling with understanding the correlation between their commitment to ESG factors and their long-term success in global value chains. This conference was immensely fruitful, as we witnessed various papers that provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by multinational corporations in creating ESG value”, he said. Additionally, he praised the conference for its innovative approach to organizing high-quality training workshops. He commended the scholars for their insightful presentations and active engagement throughout the conference.

The second day witnessed two insightful workshops.  The first workshop, led by Dr. Samrat Gupta, Associate Professor in the Information Systems Area at IIM Ahmedabad, focused on Social Network Analysis and Applications. Dr. Gupta emphasized the critical role networks play in organizing societies and business activities globally. He provided a comprehensive introduction to Social Network Analysis, highlighting its importance in various disciplines such as management, business, sociology, and communications. The workshop blended theoretical understanding with practical applications, involving lectures and hands-on sessions using tools for analyzing social networks.

The second workshop, conducted by Prof. Ramadhar Singh, Distinguished University Professor at Ahmedabad University, delved into Understanding and Pursuing Research. Prof. Singh addressed the pressing issue of quality in doctoral dissertations and published papers. He articulated the essence of research as a means to question the status quo and propose better alternatives. Sharing his expertise, he recommended two frameworks for conducting impactful and rigorous research: paradigmatic research on causal relations (experimental research) and research on individual differences (personality traits), which are particularly popular among behavioral and social scientists.

Over 118 scholars presented their papers on the third day, showcasing a wide array of research topics and innovative ideas. The conference concluded with a valedictory ceremony recognizing the outstanding contributions of the participants. The Best Paper Awardees also received prizes on this occasion. Their names are as follows:

Saurabh Singh, a postgraduate student from Ghaziabad, attending CERE for the second time, expressed his enthusiasm: “CERE 2024 at IIM Indore has been both enriching and prestigious, uniting scholars from various domains. The quality of the research and discussions was outstanding. Kudos to the organizers for their meticulous planning. I’ve gained insights to elevate my research, and the opportunity to network and collaborate was truly inspiring.”

Dr. Arjyalopa Mishra, Assistant Professor from NLU Odisha, shared her experience: “CERE 2024 has been an overwhelming and incredible learning journey. I am grateful to the DPM participants for their exceptional organization. The conference’s start with Sanskrit set a unique tone. Prof. Rai’s emphasis on the importance of behavior over designation resonated deeply with me”. The workshops were invaluable, covering everything from the basics. We are leaving with crucial insights on conducting research across various fields, with a solid understanding of the fundamentals, she added.

The conference nurtured an environment of learning, collaboration, and innovation. It brought together a diverse group of scholars, educators, practitioners, and students, all united in their pursuit of excellence in research and education. The event not only highlighted emerging interdisciplinary trends but also emphasized the importance of integrating ESG principles into business practices. The insights gained, and connections made during this conference will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the development of sustainable solutions to global challenges.