AKI’s Poona Institute of Management Sciences and Entrepreneurship (PIMSE) conducted its Induction Programme on 23 September 2026 for the First Year MBA, MBA-IT and MBA-HRD students.
The Induction Programme was graced by the Chief Guest of the Valedictory Session, Dr. Parag Kalkar, Pro Vice Chancellor, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU). As a mark of respect and appreciation, Dr. Parag Kalkar was felicitated by Prof. Dr. Porinita Banerjee, Director (In-Charge), PIMSE, for his valuable presence and contribution to the programme.
Dr. Kalkar addressed the newly inducted students on the evolving role of managers and the skills required to navigate today’s rapidly changing business environment. He highlighted the importance of marketing, networking, teamwork, continuous learning, technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and adaptability for aspiring management professionals.
He encouraged students to make the most of their college environment by learning from their classmates, mentors, colleagues and people around them. He emphasised that effective managers need to build strong professional networks, collaborate with others and continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills.
He further highlighted the use of AI across different managerial functions, particularly Human Resources, where technology can support activities such as resume screening and analysing candidate behaviour during interviews. At the same time, he emphasised the importance of human capabilities such as negotiation, decision-making, emotional understanding, critical thinking and effective human interaction.
The address reinforced the need for future managers to balance technological capabilities with essential human skills. While technology and AI continue to transform the workplace, the ability to understand people, communicate effectively, collaborate, negotiate and make thoughtful decisions remains equally important.
The programme concluded with an important message that “Knowledge becomes meaningful when it is applied in real-life situations.” Students were encouraged not only to acquire knowledge but also to apply it effectively in their professional and managerial roles.
PIMSE expresses its sincere gratitude to Dr. Parag Kalkar for gracing the Induction Programme and sharing his valuable insights, experience and guidance with the newly inducted students. His address provided students with meaningful perspectives on the changing expectations from management professionals and encouraged them to remain curious, adaptable, collaborative and committed to continuous learning.
