The Higher Education Review

In recent years, the popularity of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) courses in India has seen a significant surge. BBA programs are highly sought after by students aspiring to build careers in various fields such as management, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and more.

These programs offer a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, along with practical exposure to real-world scenarios, which is crucial for students to thrive in the dynamic business environment.

One institution that has been at the forefront of providing quality BBA education is Jagran Lakecity University (JLU) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Established under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act 1956, JLU Bhopal has emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most awarded universities in Central India.

JLU Bhopal stands out for its practice-based pedagogy, which emphasizes hands-on learning and research-driven education. With over 30 degree programs and a diverse student body hailing from 8 countries and 27 states of India, JLU offers a multidisciplinary learning environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity and molds students into efficient professionals and visionary leaders.

The university's Faculty of Management (FAMN), home to the prestigious Jagran Lakecity Business School, is a premier institution known for its industry-relevant syllabus, top-notch faculty, and innovative pedagogy. Offering a range of undergraduate programs including BBA, BBA (Global Management/Business & Law/Advertising and PR/Sports Management/ Entertainment & Events), BMS (Marketing/HR/ Finance/Supply Chain Management), and postgraduate programs including MBA (Marketing/HR/Finance), MBA (Hospitality & Tourism) and MBA (Business Analytics). JLBS ensures that students receive a well-rounded education aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) framework.

Jagran Lakecity Business School has garnered accolades such as the AA+ rating by Careers 360 and the 9th position in Outlook's India’s Best B-Schools 2023, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in management education. With its strong industry partnerships, international collaborations, and focus on holistic development, JLU Bhopal continues to shape the future leaders of tomorrow making it a university of distinction in the realm of higher education.

Diverse Range of Offerings
Jagran Lakecity University (JLU) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in management, catering to various specializations

including Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with focuses like Global Management, Business & Law, Advertising & PR, Entertainment & Events, and Sports Management.

Additionally, they offer Bachelor of Management Studies, Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Business Administration (MBA) with specializations in HR, Marketing, and Finance, Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics, and Master of Business Administration in Hospitality & Tourism Management.

The university's vision is to become a global hub for ethical and transformative business leaders by fostering a pedagogic culture of practice, entrepreneurship, and innovation. They aim to nurture intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship through practice-based learning, wherein students are empowered to bring about transformative change within organizations.

Practice-based learning is emphasized through community outreach activities, field visits, and involvement in live projects, enabling students to apply management theories in real-world scenarios. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing students for successful professional careers.

JLU also provides extensive support for placements, training, and professional development through partnerships with organizations like Grant Thornton and Career Launcher.

The Faculty of Management plays a crucial role in shaping students' academic and professional journeys. Comprising well-qualified, experienced, and skilled educators, the faculty serves as role models for students. They undergo regular faculty development programs and training to ensure consistent quality in teaching. Moreover, their strong research acumen enables them to understand and address the practical needs of students effectively.

To further enhance students' skill sets, the department conducts soft skill workshops and problem-solving sessions regularly. This comprehensive approach to faculty development and student support ensures that JLU remains at the forefront of management education, producing competent and confident graduates equipped for the challenges of the modern business world.

Driving Success through Industry-Academia Collaboration
Industry-academia collaboration stands as a cornerstone for the holistic development of students and the advancement of nations. The symbiotic relationship between these two entities ensures that educational institutions remain relevant to the evolving needs of industries while equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers.

Without this collaboration, graduates risk being unemployable due to a mismatch between their skills and industry requirements.

Recognizing this, Jagran Lakecity University (JLU) emphasizes the importance of industry-academia collaboration in shaping its curriculum and pedagogy. JLU's MBA programs, including specializations in Marketing, Finance, HR, Business Analytics, and Hospitality and Tourism, are co-created by industry experts in partnership with the university. This ensures that students receive a curriculum that is aligned with industry standards and demands. Additionally, industry partners are actively involved in teaching applied modules, providing students with real-world insights and experiences.

Practical experience and skill development are integral components of JLU's educational approach. Through internships and cooperative employment programs, students gain real-world exposure and hone their professional skills. The incorporation of courses on data analytics and machine learning further enhances student’s competitiveness in the job market.

The collaboration between academia and industry not only benefits students but also ensures that educational outcomes meet market demands. By adapting curricula to align with industry requirements and redefining faculty roles to emphasize skill development institutions like JLU prepare graduates to thrive in diverse professional settings.
Moreover, JLU recognizes the importance of equipping students with soft skills such as communication and teamwork, essential for success in today's dynamic work environment. By providing a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience and soft skill development, JLU aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable and proficient in meeting the challenges of the global economy.

Charting the Future Path
The Business School at Jagran Lakecity University regularly organizes workshops focusing on soft skills and problem-solving techniques aiming to enhance student’s valuable skill sets. Additionally, the Business School provides a range of certificates and add-on courses, including CCC, Tally GST, Yoga, Digital Marketing, and Professional & Management Skills, enabling students to broaden their knowledge and better prepare for the industry.

Looking ahead, the Business School is poised to align with the National Education Policy (NEP) and introduce innovative changes including offering a fourth-year honors program with a research-based focus. Embracing an interdisciplinary approach, students will have the opportunity to explore diverse fields through open elective courses offered by other schools within the university.

Skill enhancement courses will ensure students are equipped with the necessary competencies for success in the competitive business landscape, while ability enhancement courses will provide experiential learning opportunities and foster social responsibility and essential human skills.