Following IIM Indore’s much talked about innovation – the IPM, IIT-Delhi has now decided to launch a 5-year B.Tech-MBA from the next academic year.

This and other plans below as disclosed by Head of Management Studies, IIT-Delhi, Dr Kanika Bahl

It’s been a year, you’ve taken over, what are the jobs done?

One is that for part-time MBA we conducted the admission process through GATE – this provides more credibility to the admission process. Another major initiative that we are starting a B.Tech MBA five-year dual degree programme for B.Tech students. We do hope to have international collaborations for this initiative.

Any increase in fees?

No, in fact from the 2013 (graduating in 2015) batch onwards, only 50% of the fee would be used directly for students. This money is being used for their international exposure through a Global Field Study (GFS), where student would spend time in a foreign location to understand the global nature of business. Talks are on to send them to destinations in Asia, Europe, US etc. In the US we are in discussions with Wharton, Harvard, MIT Sloans etc. Besides, some money would be used for inviting global experts in different field.

Curriculum change?

Yes, it is on. We will re-look at the curriculum so that it reflects the current world scenario. A bit of re-focus of what should be given more importance and what is less important. There will be many more electives to choose from as well. Also stress on ethics, leadership skills, responsibility etc. We hope to put the new curriculum in place with the next session beginning July 2014.

Faculty numbers?

We have had 12 faculty for several years. In the last one year we have taken the number up to 17 and this number is likely to go to 19 in the next few months. Some 200 applied and we brought down the choice to 2. This is where IIT, helps – the process takes time but it ensures quality.

Intake?

No. Not till we manage to take the faculty to 25, we would not like to increase student intake and spoil the faculty-student ratio.

Is it a satisfying job to head IIT-Delhi?

IIT Delhi has kind of been my first job after I returned from MIT Sloan. I have been here for twenty years so have been through the process. I am deeply aware of the issues that need to be handled. I am able to function well because of an extremely competent, committed and supportive faculty colleagues.

Your academic dreams?

I would like to be known as someone extremely good in research – someone in the top bracket. Research in ethics is my forte and I hope I can keep at it and do a extremely good job of it.

Does being a woman the helm, change or better things?

No, the gender is immaterial. Never occurred to me.