CEO, COO, MD, VP, Deputy Magistrate, and Superintendent of Police Joins IIM Sambalpur's 2024 PhD Batch
IIM Sambalpur started the 6th batch of PhD and the 5th batch of Executive PhD program 2024 in hybrid mode. The inauguration ceremony was held with insightful discussions on research methodologies and journeys, that featured both national and international academicians, authorities, and industry leaders. The discussions were held to share the research experience and to guide the enrolled PhD students at IIM Sambalpur. The newly enrolled Executive PhD students are currently working in various sectors including the Defense Force, government organizations, the IT industry, and entrepreneurship. Some are the students are employed in prestigious companies such as Google, Accenture, Flipkart, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, and Pidilite Industries, among others.
Notably, a total of 25 candidates in both PhD and Executive PhD programs, hold various positions including CEO, COO, MD, VP, Deputy Magistrate, Senior Superintendent of Police, IIT Faculty, Business Head, and many more. Among the PhD cohort, 40% are female students while in the Executive PhD, a total of 20% are female students.
Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, emphasized the importance of research in driving innovation and solving real-world problems and described the research methodology. He talked about the positivist and interpretivist approaches to scientific theory. Prof Jaiswal said that the positivist method starts with a hypothesis grounded in an established theory. Researchers collect data to test this hypothesis, via a structured process of formulating research questions, developing hypotheses, collecting data, and presenting findings. The interpretive approach involves unusual facts that challenge traditional established theories. It investigates discrepancies between theory and practical outcomes. This approach creates new research opportunities by exploring anomalies.
Prof. Raj Agnihotri, Assistant Dean of Industry Engagement, Ivy College of Business, Iowa State University, USA, emphasised on thinking beyond the boundaries by going ahead of the existing theories and to start finding solutions to the existing problems in business, society and communities. He said to find something that has universal value and significance. Prof also asked students to expand network with peers and experts through collaborations and to enhance their academic and professional horizons.
Prof. Vishal Gupta, Professor, University of Alabama, USA encouraged students to push the boundaries and to do high quality research considering the global competition. He emphasised to follow the journey with dedication, passion, innovation and groundbreaking work. The journey is not to for completition but to add something new to the world, he added.
Dr. K.K Tripathy, Economic Advisor (Health), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, said that the passion is the cornerstone fo the academic journey. This is a source to drive to create new knowledge and tackle complex problem. Networking, developing analtyical skills and crticial thinking is important to navigate uncertainity, he added. Prof. Tripathi said “Remember, effective research involves understanding and interpreting data accurately, contributing to meaningful societal improvements, and enduring challenges with perseverance and resilience.”
Dr. R.K Singh, Vice President (HR), TRL Krosaki Refractories Ltd., Belpahar, Odisha, said, “Research is not merely an academic pursuit but a journey of self-discovery and innovation. As we advance in automation and AI, we must embrace research as a tool to challenge existing paradigms and explore new frontiers. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches and critical thinking, we uncover insights that drive organizational excellence and personal growth. The power of research lies in its ability to question, validate, and transform conventional wisdom, ultimately enhancing our understanding and application of knowledge in diverse fields”
Earlier, the programme commenced with an introductory remarks by Prof. Saumyaranjan Sahoo, Chairperson, PhD/Exe PhD Programme. Prof. Padmavathy Dhillon, Chairperson, ExPhD-DBA Programme, expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks.
The second day of the orientation programme featured a seminar by Prof. VG Venkatesh, Vice-Dean and Professor, Supply Chain Management, EM Normandie Business School, France, on “Crafting an impactful PhD journey: A Primer.” This was followed by a session on “Crafting Research Output” by Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal.
