"Value for MBA Students Lies in Developing Both Macro & Micro Perspectives"

With placement challenges and rising skill demands, Indian B-schools must balance conceptual knowledge, technical expertise and behavioural competencies to deliver value, ARVIND SAHAY, Director, MDI Gurgaon, tells Vishal Katoch. in a chat. Excerpts

- By ARVIND SAHAY, Director, MDI Gurgaon, tells Vishal Katoch.

In the face of increasing geopolitical uncertainties, including shifting international alliances, new tariff regimes and emerging challenges, how should students aspiring to study abroad strategically plan their educational paths?

It is becoming increasingly evident that the United States, once the most sought-after destination for higher education, is losing some of its appeal. Other countries are emerging as strong alternatives. China is expected to launch its K1 visa programme, while the United Kingdom has revised its policy to actively invite talented and highly skilled individuals. Germany, too, has signalled openness to international students, with its ambassador to India making encouraging remarks recently.

These nations now offer post-study opportunities ranging from 1.5 to 3 years, allowing graduates to gain work experience, an important factor for students who often finance their studies through loans. However, students must evaluate the quality of the institutions they choose. Unless one secures admission to a top university, the top 50 in the US or the top 30 to 40 in Europe, the return on investment may be poor. Interestingly, many Tier-2 Indian institutions are now striving harder to provide meaningful opportunities for students, making domestic education a viable option worth considering.