In an era where technology dictates the pace of global business, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya has taken a significant leap forward. By forging a strategic partnership with Automation Anywhere, a global leader in intelligent automation, the institute is set to redefine management education. This collaboration aims to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) into the core of its academic curriculum, ensuring that the next generation of business leaders is not just tech-savvy but “future-ready.”
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on January 19, 2026, marks a milestone for the institute, located in the historic land of enlightenment. Under the leadership of Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, this initiative aligns with the national vision of “Make AI in India and Make AI work for India.”
The Strategic Partnership: IIM Bodh Gaya & Automation Anywhere
The collaboration between IIM Bodh Gaya and Automation Anywhere is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial application. As AI becomes a staple in corporate operations, management students must understand how to leverage these tools to drive efficiency and innovation.
Key Highlights of the MoU:
- Access to SaaS Platforms: Students will gain hands-on access to Automation Anywhere’s cutting-edge software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for both academic learning and research.
- Professional Certification: The partnership opens doors for students to earn industry-recognized certifications in process automation, significantly enhancing their employability.
- Curriculum Integration: Automation technologies will be embedded into existing management courses, ensuring a holistic understanding of digital transformation.
- Expert-Led Modules: Automation Anywhere will assist the institute in developing specialized sessions and modules focused on AI and its practical business applications.
“We are steadfast in equipping our young leaders and empowering them to be future-ready. This partnership fits within our strategy to integrate education with direct industry engagement,” stated Dr. Vinita S. Sahay during the signing ceremony.
Bridging the Gap: From Theory to Agentic Automation
Shortly after the MoU signing, the collaboration immediately bore fruit with an interactive session on Agentic Process Automation. This session, tailored for first-year MBA students, moved beyond traditional RPA to explore “agentic” systems—AI agents capable of making autonomous decisions within business workflows.
Why Agentic Automation Matters for Managers
While traditional automation follows fixed rules, agentic automation utilizes AI to handle unstructured data and complex decision-making. For a future manager, understanding this shift is crucial for:
- Optimizing Supply Chains: Using AI to predict disruptions and automatically reroute logistics.
- Enhancing Customer Experience: Deploying sophisticated AI agents that can resolve complex queries without human intervention.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Leveraging real-time analytics to pivot business strategies instantly.
Expanding the AI Portfolio: Specialized Programs at IIM Bodh Gaya
This MoU is part of a broader “AI push” at the institute. IIM Bodh Gaya has been aggressively expanding its digital and analytical offerings to meet the soaring demand for data-fluent managers.
1. MBA in Digital Business Management (DBM)
The institute’s flagship DBM program is specifically designed to create specialists in analytics, fintech, and digital marketing. The curriculum covers:
- Industry 4.0 Strategic Initiatives
- Introduction to R and Python
- Big Data Analytics for Digital Transformation
2. Executive Certificate in AI & Machine Learning
For working professionals, IIM Bodh Gaya offers a 10-month Executive Certificate Programme in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Business. This program, often delivered in collaboration with partners like Times Professional Learning, focuses on:
- Statistical Learning for Analytics
- Deep Learning and NLP (Natural Language Processing)
- Capstone Projects based on real-world business use cases.
Read our previous post: AI Boom, Hiring Bust: How Automation is Redefining the Indian IT Landscape
The Role of AI in Modern Management Education
The integration of AI into management is no longer an elective—it is a necessity. According to recent industry trends, the global AI in education market is projected to reach over $100 billion by 2034. IIM Bodh Gaya’s proactive stance ensures its students are not left behind.
The “Human-in-the-Loop” Philosophy
Despite the heavy focus on technology, IIM Bodh Gaya maintains a “human-in-the-loop” approach. The institute emphasizes that AI is a force multiplier, not a replacement for human judgment. Students are taught to use AI for data processing and routine tasks while reserving “care, judgment, and inspiration” for human leadership.
| Feature | Traditional Management | AI-Enhanced Management |
| Data Analysis | Manual/Spreadsheet based | Automated/Predictive Analytics |
| Workflow | Rigid, Human-led | Dynamic, Agentic Automation |
| Strategy | Reactive (based on past data) | Proactive (based on AI forecasting) |
| Skill Focus | Rote learning/Administration | Critical thinking/AI Collaboration |
Future Outlook: A Hub for Digital Enlightenment
Located in the serene environment of Bodh Gaya, the institute is blending ancient mindfulness with modern technology. By hosting international conferences like ICM 2.0 (International Conference on Marketing), which focuses on AI-led consumer insights and ethical challenges, the institute is positioning itself as a global thought leader.
The partnership with Automation Anywhere is just the beginning. As 2026 unfolds, IIM Bodh Gaya plans to establish more industry-aligned AI labs and “AI Experience Centers” to foster a culture of research and entrepreneurship.
Also read: India IT Hiring Freeze: The Jobs Boom Ends as AI Skills Take the Lead