MUMBAI: In accordance with NEP 2020, IIM Sambalpur has introduced two innovative undergraduate programmes: “Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy” and “Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence”. These programmes, founded on Integrity and Innovation, emphasise data analysis, critical reasoning and evidence-based decision-making. The courses aim to develop responsible leaders capable of addressing complex societal and industrial challenges with a global outlook.The Management and Public Policy programme addresses national requirements in Sustainability, ESG and community-led development, preparing students to bridge policy-practice gaps at grassroots levels.The Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programme aims to enhance India’s digital capabilities and global competitiveness. Developed alongside industry experts, it focuses on creating future-ready skills whilst promoting ethical AI practices.The launch featured a roundtable discussion on Global Capability Centres as innovation drivers. Bramhanand Jha, Vice President, National eGovernance Division, MeitY, attended as chief guest, alongside keynote speakers Lt. Col. Piyush Shukla and Rajesh Kumar from the National Testing Agency.Bramhanand Jha stated, “India’s Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are no longer low-cost arbitrage centres; they are becoming strategic innovation hubs for value for global business. With the economy shifting towards a digital-first economy, GCCs are leading the way in developing agile, technology-enabled, and future-proof organizations. Academic institutions like IIM Sambalpur, with vision-oriented programmes in Data Science, AI, and Public Policy, are developing the talent and mindset to drive this change.At MeitY, we are committed to developing an ecosystem in which the academia, industry, and governance collaborate to drive sustainable innovation, transformation, and digital leadership.”Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “It is a great pride that we have successfully launched Bachelor of Science (B.S) four-year fully residential programme. This is a pioneering step towards building future-ready leaders of tomorrow. In line with India’s National Education Policy, (NEP 2020) our vision is to create responsible leaders with entrepreneurial mindset. These undergraduate programmes have a flexible structure that allows students to gain a certificate after one year, a diploma after two years, a degree after three years, and an honors degree after successfully completing four years, with multiple entry and exit points.As an institution of national importance, we are committed to offering future-oriented, Interdisciplinary education that blends academic rigor with societal relevance. We also aim to cultivate graduates who are not only career-ready but also change maker capable of navigating and influencing complex socio-economic landscape with clarity, compassion and courage, I warmly welcome aspiring young minds to be part of this transformative journey.”Lt. Col. Piyush Shukla, Director (JEE), NTA, said, “India’s education evaluation system is changing to discover and develop talent that can succeed in fast-paced, innovation-driven setups like Global Capability Centres. It is encouraging to witness institutions like IIM Sambalpur launch innovative undergraduate programmes that blend analytical rigour with policy and technology expertise. Our vision at NTA is to develop a strong and inclusive testing system in tune with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and ready students for global leadership and innovation.“Rajesh Kumar, Director (CUET), NTA said, “With the launch of CUET, we have made a big leap towards democratizing access to quality higher education in India. As top institutions such as IIM Sambalpur introduce specialized undergraduate programmes in Data Science, AI, and Public Policy, it becomes even more important that talent from all parts of the country gets an equal chance to be part of the innovation economy. Global Capability Centres are shaping the future of work, and through an equitable, transparent, and standardized testing environment, NTA is dedicated to helping drive this transformation by empowering the next generation of globally capable professionals.“The event included two panel discussions about GCC operations and talent development. Notable participants included industry leaders from SAP, Deloitte, McKinsey, Google India, and other prominent organisations.IIM Sambalpur will conduct admissions through IIT JEE Main for B.S. in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and through CUET for B.S. in Management and Public Policy. Admissions commence in June 2025, with classes beginning in September 2025.