Mumbai: In a major industry-academia collaboration, Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., the parent company of Japanese global apparel retailer UNIQLO, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) to nurture future leaders in retail management.
This strategic partnership aims to bridge the gap between industry expectations and academic learning by offering BIMTECH students access to global best practices, practical exposure, and career opportunities in the fast-evolving retail sector.
At the MoU signing event, key representatives from both institutions, including Kenji Inoue, CFO & COO, UNIQLO India; Dr Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH; and Prof Pankaj Priya, Deputy Director, BIMTECH, were present to mark the launch of this future-focused initiative.
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A Unique Industry-Academia Engagement
As part of the collaboration, UNIQLO will conduct expert-led industry lectures, offer internships, and extend campus placements through its Management Candidate Program.
Selected high-performing students will also gain international exposure through nomination to Fast Retailing’s Global Management Program in Japan, further preparing them for leadership roles in global retail.
“UNIQLO is delighted to collaborate with BIMTECH to foster innovation and talent development,” said Kenji Inoue, CFO & COO of UNIQLO India. “Students will gain valuable business insights through sessions led by global industry experts.”
Retail Management: Empowering Future Leaders
BIMTECH, known for pioneering programs in PGDM (Retail Management), emphasized the importance of such partnerships to ensure holistic development.
“This MoU is not just a formal agreement but a commitment to shaping the next generation of retail professionals through global exposure and experiential learning,” said Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH.
Students enrolled in the PGDM (Retail Management) program will benefit from direct interaction with industry veterans and access to global retail operations through real-world projects and mentorship opportunities.
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Advancing India’s Retail Talent Pipeline
The partnership comes at a time when India’s retail industry is experiencing rapid expansion, with increasing demand for skilled professionals trained in both local and international retail dynamics.
By combining academic rigor with hands-on learning, UNIQLO and BIMTECH aim to redefine the future of retail management education in India.
BIMTECH, established by the late Basant Kumar Birla and Sarala Birla, continues to shape global leaders through its innovative programs, including PGDM, PGDM (International Business), PGDM (Insurance Business Management), PGDM (Retail Management), PGDM-Online, and doctoral-level FPM/E-FPM courses. Backed by a strong alumni base of over 8,000 professionals across the globe, BIMTECH is recognized among India’s premier business schools.
