EduConnect

GIM Students Shine on Global Stage: Reach Oxford University’s ‘Map the System’ Finals


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In an inspiring accomplishment, five students from Goa Institute of Management (GIM) have placed India in the global spotlight by reaching the Global Finals of the prestigious Map the System competition, organized by the University of Oxford. This recognition is not only a celebration of academic excellence but also a reflection of purpose-driven, socially conscious innovation.

The GIM team – Aryan Rajpal, Aditi Naringe, Dhruv Bhagat, Subham Das, and Yash Kabra – stood out among thousands of teams from around the world. They ranked in the top 10% globally, making GIM the only Indian business school to reach the global stage of this highly competitive event.

Their project, focused on improving access to justice in India, tackled one of the country’s most complex and systemic challenges. Using a systems thinking methodology, the team mapped out the legal landscape and proposed transformative reforms. A key component of their solution was the promotion of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) — a digital-first approach to legal conflict resolution aimed at making justice faster, inclusive, and accessible to all.

The team’s work was mentored by Prof. Dr. Pravat Surya Kar, whose guidance helped them navigate the intricacies of legal systems and social innovation frameworks.

Speaking about the achievement, Dr. Kar said,

“This isn’t just about a competition — it’s about empowering the next generation to reimagine society’s toughest problems. These students are proof that leadership with purpose is the future.”

This success aligns with GIM’s vision to develop socially aware leaders who go beyond conventional business roles to create systemic, sustainable impact. The achievement also highlights the institute’s commitment to nurturing innovation, critical thinking, and societal relevance in its academic pursuits.

As GIM celebrates this international recognition, it also sets a strong example for Indian academia — proving that with the right blend of mentorship, critical inquiry, and passion, students can indeed change the world.

EduConnect

Goa Institute of Management Mourns the Passing of Former HUL Chairman and GIM’s First Chairman of the Board, Susim Mukul Datta


Goa, July 7, 2025: The Goa Institute of Management (GIM) expresses its deepest condolences at the passing of Mr. Susim Mukul Datta, a titan of India’s corporate world and the founding Chairman of the Board of Governors at GIM, who passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on Saturday morning.

Mr. Datta served as Chairman of GIM’s Board from 1993 to 2006 and was instrumental in setting the academic and ethical vision that would shape the institution into one of India’s premier management schools. His leadership extended beyond administration—he was a mentor, a strategist, and a friend to many in the GIM family.

Known best in the corporate world as the former Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (then Hindustan Lever Ltd), Mr. Datta led the company through a period of significant transformation, including the iconic merger of Lipton Tea and Brooke Bond. His pioneering work in rural marketing helped shape India’s FMCG roadmap.

Over his distinguished career, Mr. Datta served on the boards of more than 21 leading Indian organizations, including Philips India, Tata Trustee Company, Castrol, IL&FS Investment Managers, Peerless, and Linde India. But GIM always held a special place in his heart.

Dr. Ajit Parulekar, Director of GIM, remarked:

“Mr. Datta played a very significant role in shaping the early years of the Goa Institute of Management. His guidance during GIM’s formative decade laid the foundation for what the institution has become today. Even after his formal retirement from our Board of Governors, he remained closely associated with GIM and visited our campus on several occasions. We will always be grateful for his wisdom, mentorship, and unwavering support through critical periods of our development.”

The GIM community extends its heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Datta’s family and loved ones. His vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence will continue to guide GIM for generations to come.