59 IIM Trichy students unplaced, educator flags it as worrying trend
From too many IIMs opening to changes in what companies want, many people online are discussing why even top MBA students are finding it hard to get jobs in today's tough job market.A growing conversation on social media has sparked debate around the changing value of an MBA, especially from India's premier B-schools. The trigger? A string of posts reflecting how the once-coveted management degree is no longer a guaranteed ticket to a dream job.advertisementOne user remarked candidly, 'Too many IIMs have diluted their brand. Most of these colleges don't entertain cos with salary below a threshold to retain 'brand' value and that caused students [to] go unplaced. They will get a job offline but at a lower salary in most cases.'IIM Trichy is one of the best colleges in the country.It is an IIM.I have taught MBA aspirants long enough to know how hard it is to get into an IIM.They had 100% placement for last two years.1 in 6 students at an IIM not getting a job IS NOT NORMAL!!! https://t.co/uEUM8Rilrq pic.twitter.com/17UYRb7Uz2— Ravi Handa (@ravihanda) June 11, 2025
This sentiment resonates with several others who chimed in, highlighting a deeper mismatch between talent and opportunity. 'What could be the problem? I also observe a similar pattern in my hiring. Great kids, high talent but not finding opportunities... Markets and employers have become merciless with their high expectations.'advertisementThe challenges aren't just for fresh graduates. Those attempting to re-enter the workforce after a break find the terrain just as difficult. As one user put it, 'Returning back to work after a sabbatical is like climbing Everest Employment and career building in today's times is indeed a tough battle.'59 students at IIM Trichy didn't get placed. (~15%)Only 104 of them got a CTC of more than 20 lakhs (~27%) pic.twitter.com/uElk1JDaio— Ravi Handa (@ravihanda) June 10, 2025Others pointed to a shift in industry priorities, particularly within the tech space. 'The biggest consumer of MBAs in last decade used to be FMCG, Big4 and then tech in that order Issue is, in tech, entry to product roles does not require an MBA Even Tier 1 product companies no longer insist on a MBA degree for these roles for they have realised catching the talent young as a PM intern from an old IIT/BITS is good enough.'As hiring trends evolve and employers seek more agile, cost-effective talent pipelines, the traditional value of an MBA seems to be facing an identity crisis—raising important questions about how India's management education ecosystem must adapt.
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India Today
2 days ago
- India Today
59 IIM Trichy students unplaced, educator flags it as worrying trend
From too many IIMs opening to changes in what companies want, many people online are discussing why even top MBA students are finding it hard to get jobs in today's tough job market.A growing conversation on social media has sparked debate around the changing value of an MBA, especially from India's premier B-schools. The trigger? A string of posts reflecting how the once-coveted management degree is no longer a guaranteed ticket to a dream user remarked candidly, 'Too many IIMs have diluted their brand. Most of these colleges don't entertain cos with salary below a threshold to retain 'brand' value and that caused students [to] go unplaced. They will get a job offline but at a lower salary in most cases.'IIM Trichy is one of the best colleges in the is an IIM.I have taught MBA aspirants long enough to know how hard it is to get into an had 100% placement for last two years.1 in 6 students at an IIM not getting a job IS NOT NORMAL!!! Ravi Handa (@ravihanda) June 11, 2025 This sentiment resonates with several others who chimed in, highlighting a deeper mismatch between talent and opportunity. 'What could be the problem? I also observe a similar pattern in my hiring. Great kids, high talent but not finding opportunities... Markets and employers have become merciless with their high expectations.'advertisementThe challenges aren't just for fresh graduates. Those attempting to re-enter the workforce after a break find the terrain just as difficult. As one user put it, 'Returning back to work after a sabbatical is like climbing Everest Employment and career building in today's times is indeed a tough battle.'59 students at IIM Trichy didn't get placed. (~15%)Only 104 of them got a CTC of more than 20 lakhs (~27%) Ravi Handa (@ravihanda) June 10, 2025Others pointed to a shift in industry priorities, particularly within the tech space. 'The biggest consumer of MBAs in last decade used to be FMCG, Big4 and then tech in that order Issue is, in tech, entry to product roles does not require an MBA Even Tier 1 product companies no longer insist on a MBA degree for these roles for they have realised catching the talent young as a PM intern from an old IIT/BITS is good enough.'As hiring trends evolve and employers seek more agile, cost-effective talent pipelines, the traditional value of an MBA seems to be facing an identity crisis—raising important questions about how India's management education ecosystem must adapt.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Is IIM tag losing value? RTI reveals no placement for 59 Trichy students; only 104 got CTC over Rs 20 lakhs
An RTI query has revealed that 59 students from IIM Trichy's 2024 batch were left unplaced, accounting for nearly 15% of the cohort. Educator Ravi Handa shared the data on X, calling the situation 'not normal' for an IIM, especially given the high fees and tough entrance process. Only 27% of the batch received offers with a CTC above ₹20 lakh. The post has sparked debate on social media, with users raising concerns about market saturation, dilution of the IIM brand, and lack of transparency in placement reports. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads RTI Data Raises Questions Over Placement Numbers Concerns Over Dilution of IIM Brand Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Changing Recruitment Patterns Mixed Reactions Once considered a golden ticket to high-paying corporate roles, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) tag may no longer hold the same promise it once did, netizens are concerned. A recent RTI disclosure concerning IIM Trichy has raised tough questions about placement performance at newer IIMs. Shared publicly by educator Ravi Handa, the data shows that 59 students from the 2024 batch remained unplaced, while only 104 secured packages exceeding Rs 20 lakh. The revelations have triggered a broader debate online about the state of MBA education, job market saturation, and whether the IIM brand is slowly losing its to the data Handa cited from an RTI filed by Sonik Sourabh, IIM Trichy's 2024 batch had 384 students, of which nearly 15% did not secure campus placements. In addition, just 27% of the batch received compensation packages above Rs 20 lakh, which is considered a benchmark for elite business school outcomes. Handa remarked that such numbers are 'not normal' for an IIM, especially one that had reported 100% placement in previous noted the rigorous selection process to enter IIMs and the steep costs involved, around Rs 20 lakh, suggesting that the return on investment may no longer be guaranteed. 'Getting into IIM Trichy isn't easy. You have to crack a really tough exam. It is a dream college for a lot of people,' he figures sparked immediate concern across social media, with several users suggesting that the rapid expansion of IIMs has led to brand dilution. Comments pointed out that increasing the number of 'elite' institutions in every state compromises their exclusivity. Some also questioned the transparency of placement data, alleging that many students are pressured to opt out of the process to maintain inflated placement statistics.A post claimed that 'the placement is never 100%; it hovers between 90 to 100%. There's tremendous pressure from admin to sign opt-out forms.' Others highlighted that newer IIMs struggle to attract top-tier companies, unlike their older counterparts in the BLACKI group (Bangalore, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Calcutta, Kozhikode, Indore).Multiple responses underlined how shifts in hiring trends are impacting MBAs. Earlier, sectors like FMCG, Big 4 consulting firms, and tech companies were key recruiters. However, several users noted that product roles in tech now often bypass MBAs, preferring graduates directly from IITs or BITS through internships. As one commenter observed, 'Even Tier 1 product companies no longer insist on an MBA… catching the talent young as a PM intern is good enough.'Some hiring professionals echoed this sentiment, noting a growing mismatch between candidate quality and the available opportunities. One user remarked, 'Great kids, high talent, but not finding opportunities… Markets and employers have become merciless with their high expectations.'While some viewed 27% of students getting a ₹20 lakh+ CTC as a positive sign for a newer IIM, Handa remained focused on the 15% who didn't receive any offers, calling it 'a surprise.' Other users emphasized that the primary function of IIMs is education, not guaranteed employment, while some suggested that factors like reservation policies and institutional expansion were influencing outcomes.A few even compared the Indian scenario to foreign B-schools, pointing out that schools like Harvard and Stanford do not offer campus placements but still produce highly employable graduates due to their focus on networking and skill-building.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
College pass outs lack skills, say employers: 5 skills they need to master for getting head-hunted in 2026
Walking the paths of prestigious institutions such as the IITs, IIMs, and Central Universities is a 'dream come true' for many students. The fond hope of studying at an elite college to land the dream job is widespread. However, what if we told you that employers often say graduates lack 'job-ready skills'? Unfortunately, this is the harsh reality. Perhaps the skill deficit is the primary culprit behind India's growing unemployment crisis. Academic credentials shine, but the necessary skills lack the same lustre. After battling cut-throat competition to secure a seat in college, students often discover they are still not job-ready. Herein lies the paradox of the Indian academic mirage. According to Indeed's latest Hiring Tracker (Q4 FY25), while 82% of companies are actively recruiting and 53% of new hires are freshers, 38% of employers cite a severe skills gap as their primary hiring challenge. This raises the critical question: What is holding graduates back? Why do graduates from reputed universities still struggle to meet industry expectations? Despite top academic backgrounds, many graduates face challenges aligning with real-world demands. This disconnect is becoming more visible as industries advance faster than curricula. The answer lies in the fundamental disconnect between academia and the evolving demands of the modern workplace. As India's job market rapidly transforms—driven by AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity—many graduates find themselves armed with theoretical knowledge but lacking the applied skills employers value. The skills deficit: Where graduates fall short A closer look at the most in-demand skills reveals where exactly today's graduates are falling behind. These gaps are not just technical but extend to soft skills and industry awareness. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning AI is no longer confined to the pages of science fiction. It is here, right before our eyes. While debates continue about whether AI will replace humans, one thing is clear: AI is here to stay. Students must learn to coexist with this new 'guest,' thrive alongside it, and climb higher in the corporate world. Demand for AI expertise has skyrocketed. Regardless of the job type, AI proficiency has become a golden ticket to success. Companies seek professionals skilled in Generative AI, large language models (LLMs), and predictive analytics. Yet, most computer science graduates possess only textbook knowledge of machine learning, with little to no hands-on experience deploying AI solutions. 'The job market is evolving, and employers are moving ahead with cautious optimism. While fresher hiring remains steady and tech roles continue to grow—especially in software development, data analytics, and AI—there's a clear need to bridge the skills gap. As we enter FY26, companies are more deliberate about who they hire and how they build future-ready teams,' said Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales, Indeed India. Data Analytics Data is now at the heart of strategic decision-making. Yet, most students aren't taught to work with it in a meaningful, business-oriented way. Data-driven decision-making is now a core business function, yet many graduates lack proficiency in data cleaning, visualization, and advanced SQL queries. Employer expectation : Ability to derive actionable insights from raw data. Current reality : Most graduates can solve hypothetical problems but struggle with real-world datasets. Cybersecurity – A growing need, A dwindling talent pool With digital threats increasing, cybersecurity has become indispensable. Still, formal education hasn't caught up with this fast-emerging field. With India facing 18% of global cyberattacks, demand for cybersecurity experts has surged. However, few engineering programs incorporate ethical hacking, penetration testing, or cloud security into their curricula. Software development – The gap between academia and industry Despite being one of the top hiring domains, software development still sees a major skills shortfall among freshers. While 29% of fresher hires are for software development roles, many graduates cannot: Write production-ready code Work with version control tools like Git Deploy applications on cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure Soft skills – The overlooked differentiator Beyond core technical know-how, it is the ability to communicate, collaborate, and adapt that determines success in the modern workplace. Beyond technical expertise, 27% of employers report that freshers lack: Effective communication (emails, presentations, client interactions) Collaboration and teamwork Problem-solving in unstructured environments Root causes: Why the gap persists Identifying the reasons behind this disconnect is essential. From outdated curricula to misaligned expectations, multiple factors feed into this widening chasm. Outdated academic curricula Curricula at many institutions have not kept pace with real-world needs. Even top-tier universities lag when it comes to integrating contemporary technologies. As the saying goes, 'Change is the only constant.' To keep pace, adaptation is essential. Yet, even top-tier universities have failed to update their curricula to reflect the evolving job market. Academic syllabi give little emphasis to emerging technologies such as AI, Blockchain, IoT, or industry-relevant tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines. Overemphasis on examinations over application The emphasis on rote learning has long plagued the Indian education system. While marks dominate, practical learning often takes a back seat. The education system prioritizes rote memorization over critical thinking and hands-on problem-solving, leaving graduates ill-prepared for real workplace challenges. Lack of industry-academia collaboration Exposure to live projects and industry internships remains limited. Unlike global models, most Indian universities work in isolation. Unlike global institutions that partner with corporations for live projects and internships, many Indian universities operate in silos, offering minimal exposure to real-world business needs. Misaligned student expectations A mismatch between student perceptions and industry realities is another root cause. Many graduates believe a degree alone is sufficient. A 2025 GradAspire Survey found that: 65% of freshers believe their degree alone qualifies them for high-paying jobs. Only 30% have pursued additional certifications or practical training beyond coursework. Bridging the gap: A roadmap for 2026 To address this challenge, all stakeholders—students, universities, and employers—must take proactive steps. The road to reform begins now. For Students: Beyond the Classroom Self-driven learning and skill-building are no longer optional. Students must become active participants in their professional journey. Pursue industry certifications : Google Cloud, AWS, Microsoft AI, and cybersecurity certifications like CEH and CISSP. Build a portfolio : Contribute to open-source projects, publish on GitHub or Kaggle, and take freelance assignments. Develop business acumen : Understand how technology drives revenue, not just how to code. For universities: Modernizing education Institutions must revamp their teaching models and collaborate closely with industry leaders to remain relevant. Revamp Syllabi : Introduce AI/ML, cybersecurity, and cloud computing as core subjects. Mandate Internships : Ensure 6-month industry internships before graduation. Invite industry experts : Regular guest lectures and workshops by corporate leaders. For employers: Investing in talent Companies must stop viewing freshers as 'ready-made' and start treating them as high-potential individuals worth cultivating. Structured onboarding : Provide 3–6 month training programs for freshers. Campus collaborations : Sponsor hackathons, case competitions, and live projects. A call for systemic change The employability crisis is not insurmountable, but it requires concerted effort from educators, students, and corporations alike. As India positions itself as a global talent hub, the need for industry-aligned education has never been more urgent. Graduates must take ownership of their upskilling, universities must adapt to technological shifts, and employers must invest in nurturing raw talent. The class of 2026 stands at a crossroads. Will they be job-ready innovators or degree-holding spectators in India's growth story? The answer lies in action, not just academic achievement. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
