The Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies (SIMS) in Pune successfully concluded its prestigious 16th International Research Conference, known as SIMSARC25. The two-day event, held on February 14th and 15th, 2025, revolved around the compelling theme of 'From Wealth to Wellbeing: Navigating the New Paradigm'. This gathering served as a significant platform for academicians, researchers, industry leaders, and students to dissect the evolving relationship between economic prosperity and holistic human welfare.
A Confluence of Global Thought Leaders
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, the esteemed Founder and President of Symbiosis International University. In his address, Dr. Mujumdar set the tone by emphasizing the critical need for a shift in perspective, where the ultimate goal of economic activity must be the enhancement of overall wellbeing, not just the accumulation of material wealth. The event featured a series of keynote speeches, paper presentations, and panel discussions designed to explore this multifaceted theme.
Distinguished speakers from across the globe shared their expertise. Dr. Kandarp Mehta, a Practice Head at McKinsey & Company, provided valuable industry insights. Academic rigor was contributed by Prof. (Dr.) Demetris Vrontis, Vice Rector for Faculty and Research at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus, and Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Dhir from the Department of Management Studies at IIT Delhi. Their sessions delved into how businesses, economies, and management practices can be realigned to prioritize sustainable and inclusive wellbeing.
Rigorous Research and Scholarly Exchange
A core component of SIMSARC25 was the presentation of research papers. Scholars and PhD students submitted their work on topics intersecting management, economics, and social sciences, all connected to the central theme. The conference provided a vital forum for peer review, feedback, and the dissemination of cutting-edge research findings. This exchange is pivotal for shaping future academic inquiry and practical applications in the corporate world.
The organizing committee, led by Conference Chair Dr. Swati Chaturvedi and aided by faculty members Dr. Vijay Pereira and Dr. Nidhi Mathur, ensured the event ran smoothly. Their efforts facilitated rich interactions that challenged conventional thinking and proposed new frameworks for measuring success beyond traditional financial metrics.
Shaping Future Leaders and Paradigms
Beyond the academic discourse, SIMSARC25 played a crucial role in shaping the minds of future business leaders. Students of SIMS Pune gained direct exposure to global debates on sustainable development, ethical leadership, and corporate social responsibility. The conference underscored the institute's commitment to providing an education that looks beyond profit margins to the broader impact on society and individual wellbeing.
The event concluded with a consensus on the urgency of its theme. In an era marked by environmental challenges, social inequality, and mental health concerns, the idea that wealth is a means to an end—improved wellbeing—has never been more relevant. SIMSARC25 successfully highlighted the role of management education and research in driving this essential transformation, positioning SIMS Pune at the forefront of this important dialogue.
