Pune, Aug 22: Alumni of the International School of Business & Media (ISB&M), Nande, from the 2001–2003 academic batch, came together for an enthusiastic alumni reunion, nearly 25 years after completing their studies.
The alumni reminisced about their college days and recalled the significant role played by ISB&M in shaping their personalities, leadership abilities and professional careers.
They also pledged to continue supporting the institution and its students in the future with the aim of contributing to the development of a knowledge-driven generation.
The reunion was attended by ISB&M Founder-President Dr. Pramod Kumar and several prominent alumni, including Symphony Limited Dubai Country Manager Amit Diwan; PeopleSquare Human Resource Consulting Co-founder Ketan Raikar; Nuvora Chief Executive Officer Sandeep Bakshi; KFin Technologies Limited Assistant Vice-President Shalu Sharma; Unity Small Finance Bank Group Head Aniruddha Jain; OPDShure COO Neeraj Kapoor; Infosys Senior Lead Arpana Ingle, along with other alumni, students and dignitaries.
The alumni said that when ISB&M was established around 25 years ago, both the institution and its students faced the major challenge of establishing themselves and creating a distinct identity. The students, too, took responsibility for building the reputation of the new institution.
ISB&M was not merely a college for us; it was our first startup. We learnt how to work with limited resources, solve problems, take initiative and deliver results, the alumni said.
They recalled that the institution helped them develop a broader perspective, confidence and leadership qualities. Practical experiences at the institute also helped them develop communication skills, discipline, time management and a sense of responsibility. The resilience to bounce back from failure and an entrepreneurial mindset were among the most valuable lessons they received from the institution, they said.
Alumni urge students to become ‘job creators’, not merely ‘job seekers’
While interacting with current students, the alumni advised them to develop courage, perseverance, hard work and an entrepreneurial mindset. Although the nature of employment opportunities is expected to change in the future, there will be no shortage of opportunities, they said.
Instead of focusing solely on securing a job, students should develop their skills and think about creating businesses and employment opportunities, the alumni advised.
The alumni also expressed their willingness to actively contribute to the future development of ISB&M. Several alumni are already providing placement opportunities to ISB&M students in their respective companies.
Some alumni are also contributing through guest lectures, workshops, group discussions, admission-related activities and industry-oriented initiatives. A few alumni have also extended financial support for sports and other activities at the institution.

‘ISB&M was my first startup’: Sandeep Bakshi

During our student days at ISB&M, students were responsible for everything from opening the institution’s doors to managing the laboratory and library. This gave us a sense of ownership and taught us how to build and run an organisation. It was my first startup. The experience has proved extremely valuable in running my own company today said
Sandeep Bakshi, Alumni, ISB&M.
Alumni Neeraj Kapoor said l “When I joined ISB&M, we were the second batch. At that time, Dr. Pramod Kumar himself was the identity of the institution for us. Under his guidance, we developed confidence, leadership qualities and a go-getter attitude. His message of ‘never give up’ continues to inspire me whenever I face challenges. I am currently working in the healthcare sector in Delhi-Gurugram and, through OPDShure, providing services for children with special needs, he added
Dr. Pramod Kumar, founder president of ISB&M said that It is extremely gratifying to meet the alumni after 20 to 22 years. Many alumni have visited the campus for the first time, and seeing the enthusiasm on their faces is deeply satisfying. In the upcoming programmes, they will interact with current students and guide them on career choices and professional opportunities. Many members of this group are holding senior positions in multinational companies and the media sector, while some have established themselves as successful entrepreneurs. Their experiences will certainly inspire current students and provide them with the right direction, said Dr. Pramod Kumar, Founder-President, ISB&M.