BEST B SCHOOLS

Is The MBA Changing? IIM Lucknow Director M.P. Gupta On AI, Skills And Future Careers

Ahead of the BT-MDRA India’s Best B-Schools Ranking issue, Business Today Group Editor Siddharth Zarabi speaks with Professor M.P. Gupta, Director, Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML), about how management education is evolving amid rapid technological and economic changes. Gupta explains why the fundamental principles of business remain relevant even as AI, automation, data and new business models reshape the workplace. He discusses whether the MBA is still relevant, how management programmes need to adapt to changing industry requirements, and why future graduates will need a stronger understanding of technology alongside leadership and management skills. Gupta also outlines IIM Lucknow’s evolving academic approach, including its new BS programme in AI and Business Analytics and the introduction of a Tech MBA. He explains the rationale behind combining technology, analytics, business understanding and entrepreneurship, while highlighting the growing importance of interdisciplinary learning and industry collaboration. The conversation also covers the changing job market, placement challenges, global hiring, specialised management programmes, family-business education and the impact of AI adoption on traditional corporate roles. Gupta shares his perspective on how IIM Lucknow is preparing students and professionals for an increasingly technology-driven business environment.