Mumbai, India – Sydenham Institute of Management Studies Research and Entrepreneurship (SIMSREE) Director Shriniwas Dhure announced significant curriculum updates, stressing the critical need for multi-disciplinary knowledge in future managers. Dhure highlighted the institute’s strategic adaptation to evolving industry demands, including new courses, enhanced alumni engagement, and a focus on student mental health.
Curriculum Shifts Emphasize Broad Skill Sets
Dhure stated that knowledge of a single specialization is no longer sufficient for management professionals. The institute has incorporated more subjects from diverse fields—finance, marketing, and human resources—in line with the National Education Policy (NEP)’s emphasis on multidisciplinarity.
“A finance person should also know about marketing and HR,” Dhure noted. The curriculum aims for 70% core subject focus, complemented by interdisciplinary learning. Manpower constraints currently limit further program additions.
Strategic Institutional Changes
SIMSREE, founded in 1983 from Mumbai’s Sydenham College, recently transitioned from University of Mumbai (MU) affiliation to become a constituent college of Dr Homi Bhabha State University (HBSU). This shift offered an opportunity to develop an independent curriculum.
One priority for Dhure was converting 60 Postgraduation Diploma in Management (PGDM) seats to Masters in Management Studies (MMS) . This ensures all seats receive full recognition from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) , eliminating the need for equivalence certificates for graduates.
New Programs and Financial Strategy
The institute introduced an MSc Finance program, drawing inspiration from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). This course focuses on core finance and financial technology (FinTech) , distinct from management finance taught in the MMS program. Space limitations currently restrict additional self-financed programs.
SIMSREE maintains an annual fee of Rs 69,000. Graduates secure packages up to Rs 25 lakh, positioning the institute as the third-best nationally for return on investment (ROI). The institute has no plans to raise fees. It does not pursue consultancy projects as a revenue source, though some faculty undertake research projects. The government funds infrastructure improvements, including smart boards in classrooms.
Student Development and Mental Well-being
Alumni involvement has significantly increased, facilitated by expanded online communication during the Covid-19 pandemic. This has generated more internships and live projects for students. The institute leverages its database of approximately 5,000 alumni, including those settled abroad.
SIMSREE promotes student diversity through its state entrance test, attracting candidates from various backgrounds. Students from all backgrounds participate in student bodies and committees. Seniors mentor juniors, perpetuating an inclusive ethos.
The institute operates a ‘ HappyNess Research Centre ,’ conceptualized by consultant Ashish Ambasta. The center measures student happiness through an index. Its purpose is to ensure students, as future managers, maintain mental health. Students engage in exercises focused on recognizing positive traits in others and self-reflection.
Challenges and Industry Readiness
SIMSREE does not appear in National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) lists due to faculty vacancies. Only five of 18 regular teaching posts are filled. The institute relies on over 20 visiting faculty from industry, an approach Dhure believes ranking systems should positively recognize.
The institute integrates artificial intelligence (AI) tools for data analysis and derivatives. It offers courses in Python , Six Sigma , and LinkedIn data harnessing to equip students with employer-sought skills. Dhure noted a gap between industry requirements for AI-ready employees and current MBA graduates. SIMSREE provides training to bridge this gap.
Placement Trends and Future Outlook
Finance remains SIMSREE’s strongest placement sector, a trend expected to continue due to India’s economic growth. Digital marketing roles are in high demand within the marketing sector. While digital marketing is now in the curriculum, the institute aims to further incorporate the influencer economy.
The syllabus requires dynamic annual updates due to the rapid pace of change. Agreements with external firms provide continuous curriculum input. Dhure advocates for mathematics education to evolve, incorporating logical reasoning and data analysis over rigid traditional approaches.