Announcements

FICCI Award celebrates Abhyudaya for its deep-rooted, transformative impact on Mumbai’s underserved youth

SPJIMR has been recognised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) with the Higher Education Excellence Award for its innovative Abhyudaya initiative in the ‘Institutional Social Responsibility (Private)’ category at the 20th FICCI Higher Education Summit in New Delhi. The award was presented by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, to Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, at a ceremony celebrating innovation and societal development.

The FICCI Higher Education Awards recognise outstanding contributions by India’s leading academic institutions. Abhyudaya was recognised for its long-term impact, recent innovations, and the new community partnerships forged over the past two years.

“This recognition is a testament to the efforts of many: Our Sitaras, their families, and the schools in the K-West ward that we serve; our thousands of student mentors who have made a difference in the lives of others (and in many cases to their own); our faculty and professionals who have guided mentors and Sitaras; our administration team; donors; volunteers, and of course, Team Abhyudaya,” said Dean Nagaraj.

Empowering lives through mentorship

Abhyudaya empowers children from Mumbai’s underserved communities in the K-West ward through mentorship, after-school enrichment, and financial support. Unique in Indian management education, the initiative is deeply embedded in SPJIMR’s PGDM curriculum, ensuring that every student experiences it as an integral part of their learning journey.

Since 2008, 4,046 SPJIMR student mentors have supported 1,016 children—‘Sitaras’ or ‘stars’—to complete schooling and access higher education or meaningful livelihoods. Many Sitaras have secured employment with organisations such as Accenture, PwC, Google, ICICI Bank, and TCS, while others have pursued vocational training or entrepreneurial ventures.

From 2023, Abhyudaya has expanded community partnerships, introduced Design Thinking labs, and collaborated with SPJIMR faculty to deliver entrepreneurship education, helping Sitaras transition from self-employment to job creation.

Real impact on young lives

“Seeing a child gain confidence, discover their potential, and envision a career they once thought impossible is the most rewarding part of Abhyudaya. The transformation we witness goes beyond academics — it builds self-belief, ambition, and resilience,” said Arati Nagaraj, Director, Abhyudaya.

With one in three young Indians categorised as NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training), Abhyudaya plays a vital role in keeping children—particularly girls—in education and preparing them for sustainable livelihoods. Through Abhyudaya and its broader social impact initiatives, SPJIMR continues to redefine management education by combining purpose with practice and developing leaders who drive innovation, empathy, and sustainable progress.

Congratulations to all the Sitaras, student mentors, faculty, staff, donors, volunteers, and everyone who has contributed to Abhyudaya’s journey over the years — this award is a testament to your collective dedication and impact.