More non-engineers are making it to IIM Ahmedabad: Here's why
It's common knowledge that many students, after their engineering, join top management institutes for an MBA. The trend was seen in IIM, Ahmedabad, as well, until recently. Picture this: Till 2011, 95% of those enrolled in the postgraduate program at IIM-A came from engineering background. However, in the past 7 years, the number of non-engineering students opting for the program has increased to 33%.
IIM-A has been putting consistent efforts to improve diversity
To improve diversity in classrooms, that is, to maintain balance between engineering and non-engineering students, IIM-A has been making efforts. Finally, after 7 years the institute saw a rise in the students from non-engineering background, as 33% of such students enrolled in the 2018-20 batch.
Number of girl students also increased from 11% to 27%
As per the data released by IIM-A, the percentage of non-engineering students out of 331 students in Post-graduate program recorded in the batches of 2011-13 and 2012-14 was 5% and 4% respectively. Later, the number increased to 32% in the batch of 2017-19 and 33% in 2018-20 batch. Moreover, the number of girl students also increased from 11% in 2011-13 to 27% in 2018-20.
Institute optimistic about further increase, says IIM-A director
According to IIM-A director, Professor Errol D'Souza, the institute is extremely serious about bringing diversity in the classrooms to ensure better learning. He is also optimistic that the numbers will see a further rise in the upcoming batches. Prof D'Souza said, "It's not the entrance exam that gets you into our institute. We have tweaked the admission criteria too."
Students admitted under PwDs quota also influences classroom diversity
"If you are a topper from any university in a particular discipline, say literature or history, we will call you for an interview. If you exhibit curiosity and tenacity required to go through our program, you will be admitted," Prof added. Alongside, he also believes that the inclusion of the students under the persons of disabilities or PwDs quota also improves the classroom's diversity.
Changes made in CAT to ensure diversity in academic background
Reportedly, several other IIMs are now working towards this goal and keeping that in mind, the pattern of the entrance exam, Common Aptitude Test (CAT), has been adjusted. Moreover, the director added that it's not just the academic diversity that the institutes are looking into.
Inclusion of diversity not easy, majority comes with IIT tag
Prof D'Souza added, "Due to a traditional trend in India, several students neglect their calling and go for engineering. We find many students who come through the engineering route but are great in theater or music and have all sorts of talent." However, since most of the candidates come from an IIT background, bringing in diversity may be slightly problematic.
