The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM-K) has set a new benchmark by welcoming its most significant cohort yet for the Executive Post Graduate Programme in Interactive Learning (EPGP-IL). The institute inducted a staggering 683 participants into the 18th batch of this program, marking it as the largest Executive MBA group in IIM Kozhikode's history.
A Cohort Defined by Diversity and Reach
This record-breaking batch, designated EPGP-18, is not just large in number but also expansive in its geographical footprint. The participants are organized into six academic sections and will leverage a network of 67 learning centres spread across the length and breadth of India. This innovative, centre-based interactive learning model, powered by technology partner TimesPro, allows working professionals to attend live, interactive classes from their home city or workplace without relocating.
This structure is a strategic move by IIM Kozhikode to democratize access to top-tier management education. It is designed to support the demanding schedules of professionals while ensuring a uniformly high-quality academic experience for every participant, regardless of their location in the country.
Breaking Barriers: Women's Participation Hits a New High
One of the most noteworthy achievements of this batch is the substantial increase in gender diversity. The institute reports that nearly 29 percent of the cohort are women, representing the highest female enrolment since the program's inception. This figure underscores a positive and steady shift in the gender profile of executive management education in India, reflecting the growing number of women professionals seeking structured upskilling pathways to advance their careers.
The batch brings together a rich mix of experience and youth. The age profile reveals that professionals in their 30s form the core, constituting approximately 50% of the participants. Around 39% are in the 24-29 years age bracket, while those aged 40 and above make up 11.26% of the cohort.
Profile of the Professionals: Experience and Industry Mix
In terms of professional experience, the cohort is dominated by mid-career executives. Individuals with 6 to 9 years of work experience form the largest segment at 41%. Those with 3-5 years and 10-15 years of experience each account for roughly 25%, while seasoned professionals with over 16 years of experience comprise 7.9% of the batch.
The professional background of the participants is equally diverse, drawing from private sector firms, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and various Central and State Government organizations. As is often the trend in executive education, the Information Technology (IT) sector leads the contributions, providing 29.43% of the participants, which translates to 201 individuals. The consulting sector is the second-largest contributor, accounting for 10.23% of the batch.
A wide array of other industries is also represented, including banking, insurance, investment services, manufacturing, automotive, sales and marketing, advertising, e-commerce, real estate, petroleum and energy, engineering services, telecommunications, education, and aerospace.
The successful assembly of this historic batch highlights IIM Kozhikode's growing influence and adaptability in the executive education space. By leveraging technology to overcome geographical barriers and actively fostering greater gender inclusion, the institute is effectively shaping a more accessible and diverse future for leadership development in India.
