MBA Orientation Programme 2026 at SMS Varanasi
The School of Management Sciences (SMS), Varanasi, inaugurated a three-day orientation programme for newly admitted MBA students. During the inaugural session, students were introduced to the academic traditions of the institution, the nature of the MBA programme, expectations of the corporate world, and the practical and personal skills required for a successful career.
Welcoming the students during the inaugural session, Prof. P. N. Jha, Director, SMS Varanasi, familiarised them with the institution's academic culture, values, and the broad role of management education. He said that the real objective of management education is not limited to obtaining a degree, but also to preparing students for decision-making, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork and responsible professional behaviour.
The chief guest of the inaugural session, Yogesh Mishra, CEO, Thomas Assessment Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, while interacting with the students, said that an MBA is not merely an academic degree but a combination of business acumen, leadership capability and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. He emphasised that academic scores alone are not sufficient for success in the corporate world; communication skills, analytical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence and a continuous learning mindset are essential.
He also highlighted the growing role of AI and data-driven decision-making in the changing workplace. He said that AI will significantly influence the way management professionals work in the coming years. Therefore, instead of being afraid of AI, students should learn to understand and use it responsibly. He stressed that maintaining a balance between technology, values and human collaboration is essential.
Special guest Mr. Kapur Shah, Head – Human Resources, Kurl Learning, Piramal Finance, Mumbai, while addressing the students, laid special emphasis on corporate skills and workplace expectations. He said that for success in any organisation, along with technical knowledge, an individual's personality and professional behaviour are equally important. He advised students to learn quickly from changing situations and adapt themselves according to the objectives of the organisation.
Special guest Mr. Shiv Ratan, CEO/CSRO, D-Trans Group, Mumbai, while addressing the students, highlighted the importance of leadership, people management and corporate culture. He said that the identity of a successful manager in a modern corporate organisation is reflected in how the manager works with people, leads a team and takes decisions in challenging situations. He advised students to maintain discipline, analytical thinking, problem-solving ability and effective communication. He further stated that every employee is a cultural part of an organisation and that their behaviour affects the overall performance of the organisation.
During the inaugural session of the orientation programme, the guests and newly admitted students were introduced to the vision and profile of SMS Varanasi by Associate Professor Veerendra Tripathi. Dr. Sandeep Singh, Head of the Management and Mass Communication Department, introduced the MBA programme and the department. The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Rani T. S. and Dhanyawad Gyaan by Mr. Amitabh Pandey, Coordinator – MBA Programme.
On this occasion, Executive Secretary Dr. M. P. Singh, Director Prof. P. N. Jha, Dean Prof. Sanjay Gupta, along with faculty members and staff, were present.
