Interview Times 
Nestled in the heart of Odisha, Regional College of Management (RCM) boasts a rich legacy spanning over four decades. Established in 1982, the college emerged from a visionary response to the burgeoning industrial landscape of the state. Industrial giants had set foot in Odisha, but a crucial gap existed – a lack of qualified management graduates to steer these industries forward. Under the leadership of Dr. Prabir Pal, Dr. Prasanna Patasani among other industry and social stalwarts, the idea of RCM was born.
The journey started humbly with an MBA program from RCM. However, as technology reshaped industries in the 1990s, RCM pivoted to adapt. In 1997, the college launched the MCA program, anticipating the increasing need for IT professionals. This forward-looking strategy persisted with the introduction of India’s first ( M.Tour.A) program in 1992, in line with the government’s emphasis on boosting tourism as a major economic contributor.
Dr. Pritam Pal, Group Director of RCM College, emphasizes the importance of affordability in education while also focusing on constant adaptation to keep pace with the ever-evolving industry landscape. Taking over as Director in 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Pal readily acknowledges the significance of change at RCM. He highlights the college’s tradition of being led by individuals with robust industry experience, which has fostered a culture of continuous improvement.
Dr. Pritam states the fundamental vision behind RCM was to create opportunities for aspiring students who lacked the resources to travel to distant educational institutions, “We aimed to provide cost-effective, high-quality education that equips students with industry-relevant skills. This focus on affordability and practical skill development has remained the cornerstone of our pedagogy since inception.”
“Our curriculum can’t just reflect what’s happening today; it needs to prepare students for what’s coming day-after-tomorrow.” This philosophy manifests in the inclusion of subjects like Fintech, Data Science, Blockchain, AI, ML, Robotics, Digital Media Communication and Marketing, Cyber Security Management among others into RCM’s management programs. “Today’s managers need to understand these technologies,” Dr. Pal further elaborates.
Globalization is another key driver of change. Dr. Pal acknowledges the interconnectedness of the global economy and the need for rapid adaptation. However, he emphasizes RCM’s focus on quality over quantity. “We excel in Management, Computer Applications, and Tourism Administration,” Dr. Pal explains, “and we don’t plan to dilute our expertise by venturing beyond them. RCM is about quality, not quantity.”
A hallmark of RCM’s success lies in its industry-driven curriculum, alumni network, and international accreditations. Dr. Pal underscores the institution’s commitment to quality, emphasizing, “We innovate based on industry demands.” The college’s strong alumni connections provide invaluable insights, while international accreditations like AACSB and EQUIS drive perpetual quality improvement. Yet, RCM’s true legacy lies not in rankings or infrastructure but in its students’ achievements and unparallel fame in the global enterprise eco system.
“A family is recognized by its children’s accomplishments,” Dr. Pal remarks. RCM prides itself on its close-knit, family-like environment, fostering mentorship and personalized guidance. “We mentor our students like our own children,” Dr. Pal states, emphasizing the importance of individualized support.
RCM College prioritizes holistic student development. Beyond academics, students engage in internships, participate in clubs, and attend large-scale events that integrate sports, cultural activities, business games, and more. One such event is RCM’s flagship annual inter-college fest, Brahmastra.
Through a wide range of activities that celebrate intellect, sportsmanship, and culture, Brahmastra provides students with a platform to not just display their talents but also develop essential skills that go beyond the confines of the classroom. During BRAHMASTRA Season II in 2024, students ‘invoked their ultimate powers’ and showcased their managerial abilities, technical expertise, and leadership prowess on stage, leaving a lasting impression of excellence.
These experiences foster communication skills, teamwork, and exposure to diverse perspectives. Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, RCM offers a mentorship program to guide students through personal challenges and support their academic journeys.
Internships are a major focus, with RCM boasting a strong network of companies offering opportunities. Dr. Pal emphasizes the win-win nature of internships, providing students with practical experience and a strong work ethic, while companies can identify and cultivate future talent. RCM plays a key role in supplying a skilled workforce to Odisha’s growing industries. The college’s robust internship program ensures a steady stream of qualified interns for companies, contributing to the state’s economic development.
RCM College prides itself on its diverse and inclusive student body. A large portion of the student body comes from legacy families, creating a familiar and comfortable environment. The college also draws students from various regions across India, resulting in a vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds. RCM actively promotes a diverse learning environment. Its focus on a welcoming environment and quality education has fuelled its growth.
Looking ahead, RCM envisions a “boutique model” of expansion, establishing smaller campuses across India and internationally. These new campuses will replicate the successful model of the original RCM, offering specialized programs and a strong industry focus. The goal is to create a network of campuses where students can experience different learning environments and potentially spend a semester abroad at another RCM location. This will allow students to gain exposure to global business practices and cultures, preparing them to be successful leaders in a globalized world. Dr. Pal’s message to aspiring students echoes this commitment: Dream big but be realistic. Success does not happen overnight, put in the hard work, and success will follow.
Regional College of Management (RCM) has carved a unique niche in the educational landscape. By prioritizing an industry-driven curriculum, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and offering opportunities for holistic development, RCM empowers students to become successful leaders in a dynamic and globalized world. Under the visionary leadership of Dr.Pritam Pal and his ambitious plans for expansion, RCM will continue its well-positioned legacy of excellence for generations to come.
