In the landscape of higher education in Pakistan, the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) stands tall as a beacon of excellence and innovation. Renowned as a leading private-sector degree-awarding institute, IoBM has earned its reputation through an unwavering commitment to academic rigor and a forward-thinking approach. It offers modern and dynamic courses in emerging domains such as Data Science and Entrepreneurship, among others.
Startup Pakistan sat down with the Acting Rector of IoBM, Prof. Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro to delve into the university’s diverse degree programs, exceptional faculty, and its visionary mission to foster future job creators and leaders.
Question 1: IoBM has a diverse range of degree programs. Can you tell us, especially about the graduate and post-graduate programs being offered for Spring 2024 admissions?
Answer: IoBM comprises four constituent colleges, each offering a range of academic programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels. These four colleges are the College of Business Management (CBM), the College of Computer Science and Information Systems (CCSIS), the College of Engineering and Sciences (CES), and the College of Economics and Social Development (CESD).
For the Spring 2024 academic year, IoBM will be admitting students into a diverse array of undergraduate degree programs, such as BS (Honors) in Accountancy Management and Law, BS (Joint) Honors in Economics and Finance, BS in Entrepreneurship, BS Mathematics and Computational Finance, BS Statistics, and Business Analytics and others. Additionally, we provide B.Ed. (Honors) programs for various durations, including 1.5 years and 2.5 years on weekends.
The MBA program at IoBM has two scheduling options, morning and weekends/evening. Intake will also be in MS and M.Phil programs, covering various fields like Business Management, Education, Organizational Psychology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, and Engineering Management.
Further, aspiring doctoral candidates can explore PhD programs in Business Management, Computer Science, Economics, Education, Environment and Energy Management, and Statistics and Scientific Computing. All details are on our website.
Question 2: Can you highlight key features of IoBM’s graduate programs that foster future leadership and entrepreneurship?
Answer: To cultivate future leaders and entrepreneurs, IoBM’s graduate program features a well-rounded curriculum, encompassing core business topics, ethics, social responsibility, technology, and interdisciplinary studies. This approach equips students to tackle real-world challenges effectively. Promoting a culture of continuous learning encourages adaptability and lifelong learning. Capstone projects challenge students individually or in teams, showcasing their leadership and problem-solving abilities. Critical thinking and creativity are emphasized through case studies and practical scenarios. Integration of internships and industry projects provides hands-on experience, while an emphasis on ethics and sustainability fosters a strong ethical foundation. Global exchange programs, innovation courses, mentorship, and networking opportunities prepare students for leadership and entrepreneurship, aligning with IoBM’s mission to advance society through education and innovation.
Question 3: Which IoBM program prepares students for Pakistan’s emerging digital job market?
Answer: IoBM’s diverse program aligns students with the evolving digital job market. These programs include a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and even a PhD in Computer Science, equipping students with fundamental skills for software development and IT roles, and also enabling deeper knowledge and advanced positions in the technology sector. Our doctorate program is a prestigious path for aspiring experts in specific subfields, with a profound impact on technology and computing.
Furthermore, we offer Bachelor’s in Software Engineering, Data Science, and Technology Management to name a few. IoBM complements these programs with diplomas in digital marketing and other workshops in emerging technologies, ensuring students stay updated on industry trends. These offerings prepare students to integrate seamlessly into the digital and technology job market.
Question 4: How does IoBM ensure students receive a high-quality education and prepare for their careers?
Answer: At IoBM, we’re on a mission to elevate the academic landscape. Our pursuit of excellence is steered by the “IoBM Academic Excellence Framework” (IAEF), designed to secure AACSB accreditation and uphold rigorous global standards. Our program boasts accreditation from NBEAC, NCEAC, PEC, and NACTE, assuring you of top-notch education. Further, we encourage soft skills development through 16 student societies and an IEEE student branch. Practical experience is vital. We offer internships, global exchanges, and hands-on research opportunities. Our modern facilities and thriving alumni network further facilitate your journey.
Question 5: Tell us about the experiential learning opportunities and extracurricular activities provided to IoBM students.
Answer: Students actively engage in extracurricular activities facilitated by various Student Societies. These include the CBM Society of Health Managers (CSHM), Digicon Informatics Society (DIS), Egalitarians (The Economics Society), Entertainment Plus Society (EPS), Finance Society, IoBM Club of Entrepreneurs (ICE), Literary & Public Speaking Society (LPSS), Marketing Society, Mathematics Society, Social Welfare and Trust (SWAT), Sustainable Living Society (SLS), and the ‘Vanquishers’ Sports Society. The IEEE Student Branch also plays an active role at both the national and international levels, enhancing the overall student experience.
IoBM also offers an array of on-campus facilities. The Student Activity Center provides indoor games such as snooker, table tennis, chess, fuse ball, and a fully equipped air-conditioned fitness center for both genders. The center also houses badminton, volleyball, throwball, and squash courts. Outdoors, there’s a multipurpose ground for netball, basketball, and futsal. Furthermore, IoBM ensures students have access to hygienic food outlets, providing nourishing options for both staff and students.
Question 6: How effective is your Placement Office in helping students find jobs upon graduation?
Answer: The Placement & International Cooperation Department at IoBM is solely focused on the professional development and long and short-term employment enablement of eligible students and alumni. Every year the department manages internships of around 1500 students and placement facilitation of around 1200 students/alumni. Our students are mandated to complete at least one internship of 6-8 weeks as a graduation requirement. Students can source an offer themselves or use our support to find a suitable internship.
The Department also creates job opportunities for IoBM’s students. It regularly arranges recruitment drives, on-site screening tests & interviews, mentorship sessions with industry experts, talent hunts, and more. It also hosts IoBM’s annual flagship event, the Career Fair, attended by leading national and multi-national organizations. In 2023, 99 organizations participated in the Career Fair, attended by over 5,000 students and alumni.
An annual graduate placement survey conducted by the Placement Department has revealed that IoBM graduates have an 84% placement success rate, while the remaining graduates have started their businesses or have had a change in life status (marriage, studies abroad, etc). The Department will soon start a full-fledged career coaching clinic for the growth and development of IoBM students.
Question 7: My final question to you is that with several universities present in Karachi, can you tell us in about 60 words, why should a prospective student opt for IoBM? What is your USP?
Answer: Prospective students should choose IoBM for its experiential learning, industry-oriented education, and wide range of specialized programs. IoBM’s unique selling points include a faculty with significant industry experience, a strategic location in the business hub of Karachi, and a track record of producing successful graduates who excel in their careers. This combination of factors ensures that students receive a quality education that prepares them for real-world success.
