Mumbai, July 3, 2026: SVKM’s NarseeMonjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), School of Business Management (SBM), welcomed students of the incoming MBA Batch of 2026–28 at the Mukesh Patel Auditorium during the Inauguration Ceremony of the Foundation program. This event marks the beginning of the academic journey for students enrolled in the MBA, the MBA (Human Resources)& MBA (Pharmaceutical Management) programs. The inauguration program introduced the new cohort toSBM’s academic ecosystem, industry-oriented learning approach, and leadership development framework.
Designed to facilitate a seamless transition into management education, the Foundation Programfamiliarise students with academic expectations, experiential learning, industry engagement initiatives, and student support systems.Ultimately, the program aims to equip students with the mindset, skills, and perspectives required to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Chief Guest, Mr. Ritesh Gauba, Chief Executive Officer, Epigamia, and a distinguished SBM alumnus, addressed the incoming cohort by sharing insights from his two-decade career across leading global organisations. . Reflecting on the qualities that define successful leaders today, he encouraged students to embrace curiosity, adaptability, and empathy as they navigate their management careers.
Mr. Ritesh Gauba, said, "Success is not built by having all the answers; it is built by staying curious enough to ask better questions, courageous enough to challenge your own limits, and empathetic enough to understand the people around you. The world will reward those who step beyond their comfort zones, embrace continuous learning, and balance intelligence with humanity. Be curious, think beyond the obvious, and never lose the human touch because that is what truly sets leaders apart."
Welcoming the new batch, SBM leadership emphasised the importance of embracing learning beyond the classroom and developing the resilience, adaptability, and ethical grounding required to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven business environment.
Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro Vice Chancellor, NMIMS, said, "Greatness is not achieved in comfort; it is forged through guidance, sharpened by challenges, strengthened by learning from mistakes, and defined by the values we uphold. Trust your mentors, embrace every opportunity to grow, and remember that your true worth lies not in the degree you earn but in the integrity, competence, and character you build along the way. Wherever life takes you, leave a mark through your actions, because success is not just about reaching milestones; it is about becoming the best version of yourself and inspiring others through your journey."
The event was graced by the presence of distinguished academic leaders from the School of Business Management, NMIMS, including Dr. Chandrima Sikdar, Dean of Academics and Learning Experience, Dr. Mayank Joshipura – Advancing Research &Innovationand Dr. Veena Vohra, Dean of Accreditation and Strategic Initiatives. Through their respective leadership roles, they continue to contribute significantly to advancing academic excellence, fostering innovation, and strengthening SBM’s commitment to quality education, impactful research, and strategic growth.
With a legacy of academic excellence and industry relevance, SBM NMIMS remains dedicated to shaping responsible leaders who can navigate complexity, drive innovation, and create sustainable value. The Foundation Programme serves as the first step in this journey, inspiring students to learn, lead, and grow with purpose.