Nisha Bhatt is the Principal of Brixton College, located in Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur. Brixton College aims to become a premier management institution in Nepal, promoting academic excellence and preparing students for real-world challenges. Nisha Bhatt is dedicated to realizing this vision by introducing innovative programs, recruiting top faculty, and upholding high educational standards. She shares her perspective with College Readers. Excerpts:

Brixton College has been providing the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program. What makes this course relevant in Nepal?

A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) course is pertinent in Nepal, as it is in many other countries, for several reasons. BBA programs in Nepal provide students with a well-rounded education in various aspects of business, including management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. This equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the business world. BBA programs often emphasize entrepreneurship, which is vital for a developing economy like Nepal. BBA programs provide students with opportunities to network with professors, fellow students, and professionals in the business world. Building a network is crucial for career advancement and business development. BBA programs focus on developing leadership and management skills, which are essential for those aspiring to become managers or executives in various organizations. Many BBA programs include internships and practical training, giving students real-world experience. With the skills and knowledge gained in a BBA program, graduates can access a wide range of job opportunities in various sectors. Nepal has several universities and colleges offering BBA programs with a high standard of education, making it a reputable choice for business education. BBA programs often teach students to adapt to a rapidly changing business environment, which is crucial in a world where technology and market dynamics are constantly evolving. Nepal's economy has been steadily growing in recent years, and business plays a critical role in this growth. BBA graduates can contribute to the development of businesses and industries in the country, creating job opportunities and fostering economic progress. Thus, the BBA course, in Nepal equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the country's economic growth, fosters entrepreneurship, and provides opportunities for career advancement in a competitive job market. It also helps students develop a global perspective, which is increasingly important in today's interconnected world.

What are the compelling reasons for students to pursue these courses at your esteemed institution?

Founded in 2009, Brixton College is affiliated with Pokhara University, driven by a vision to inspire excellence among scholars. Taking a distinctive approach to management learning, the college acknowledges the ever-increasing volatility and unpredictability of the business climate. Traditional ways and models no longer provide adequate answers. Leaders and managers now rely more on their judgment, veering away from conventional perspectives.

In the Brixton BBA Program, the Professional Management Program takes center stage, highlighting the process of judgment. It emphasizes that exercising judgment is neither an art nor a science, but rather a craft that can be refined through practice, reflection, feedback, and coaching. Brixton College boasts a vibrant atmosphere for management education, fostering personal development based on social values and promoting spiritual, professional, and socially responsible growth. It firmly believes that innovation holds an infinite realm of promises, capable of shaping solutions across the educational, industrial, and commercial landscapes. By intelligently harnessing creativity and innovation, Brixton aims to unlock the potential for boundless success in any business sector. Within this creative ecosystem, Brixton's team challenges the prevailing status quo, delivering topics and learning experiences that others have barely imagined. This unwavering belief in the power of innovation has fuelled Brixton's triumphs and accomplishments. By continuously pushing boundaries and striving for excellence, Brixton College has positioned itself as a dynamic institution that prepares its students to navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving business world with confidence and creativity.

After completing BBA, how do the students make their career? 

After completing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, students have a variety of career options to choose from. The specific career path they pursue will depend on their interests, specialization within BBA, and career goals. Many BBA graduates start their careers in entry-level management roles in various industries. These positions can be in areas such as marketing, sales, human resources, finance, or operations. If you specialized in a particular field during your BBA program (e.g., marketing, finance, entrepreneurship), you can seek out positions that align with your specialization. For example, if you majored in marketing, you could look for roles in digital marketing, brand management, or market research. BBA graduates often find opportunities in sales and business development. These roles involve promoting products or services, establishing client relationships, and expanding the business. Those with a finance or accounting specialization can explore careers in banking, investment, financial analysis, or accounting. This might involve working as a financial analyst, accountant, or investment banker.  BBA graduates interested in HR can pursue careers in talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, or organizational development. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you can start your own business or join a startup. A BBA education can provide valuable knowledge and skills for launching and managing a business. BBA graduates can work in roles related to supply chain and operations, such as logistics, procurement, and inventory management. Management consulting firms often hire BBA graduates to work on a variety of projects for clients in different industries. Some BBA graduates choose to work in the public sector, in roles related to government administration, policy analysis, or public finance. Working for nonprofit organizations or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can be a rewarding career choice for BBA graduates interested in making a social impact.

To kickstart their career after completing a BBA, consider networking, seeking internships, and utilizing their college's career services to connect with potential employers and explore job opportunities. Additionally, keep developing your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, as these are highly valued in the business world. Your career path will be influenced by your personal goals, interests, and the opportunities available in your chosen field.

Based on your decade-long experience what should the management course be like? 

The design and content of a management course can vary significantly depending on its objectives, the level of the learners (undergraduate, graduate, or executive education), and the specific focus or specialization.  Start with a solid foundation in the basic principles of management, which can include topics like planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. This provides students with a comprehensive understanding of what management entails. Cover essential management functions, such as strategic management, operations management, human resource management, marketing, and financial management. These areas address various aspects of running and leading an organization. Emphasize the importance of leadership skills and people management. This includes topics like communication, motivation, team building, conflict resolution, and organizational behaviour. Teach students how to make effective decisions and solve complex problems. This can involve case studies, critical thinking exercises, and real-world scenarios. Discuss the ethical considerations and social responsibility that managers face in their roles, and how they impact decision-making and organizational culture. Explore the role of innovation and change in today's dynamic business environment. This could include innovation processes, managing change, and adaptability. In an increasingly globalized world, understanding international business practices and cross-cultural communication is crucial. Nevertheless, effective communication skills, Project Management, Data Analysis and Decision Support, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Environmental Sustainability, Experiential Learning, Professional Development, Industry-Specific Courses, Interdisciplinary Learning, Guest Speakers and Networking, Research, and Capstone Projects are some of the features of management course.

Ultimately, a management course should not only provide students with knowledge but also equip them with the skills and attitudes needed to excel in leadership and management roles, adapt to change, and contribute positively to their organizations and society.

How can we make our syllabus/curriculum more effective and more applicable to the market?

Creating an effective and market-applicable syllabus or curriculum is essential for preparing students for real-world challenges and opportunities. Identify Learning Objectives, and regularly research industry trends, job market demands, and emerging technologies. Invite guest speakers, industry professionals, or consultants to provide insights into current industry practices, challenges, and opportunities. Consider offering elective courses or modules that can be updated more frequently. Incorporate real-world projects, case studies, and simulations into your curriculum. Emphasize the development of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as these are highly valued in the job market. Assign students to conduct market research projects to understand market dynamics, customer needs, and emerging trends. Encourage entrepreneurial thinking and innovation in the curriculum to prepare students for the rapidly changing business landscape. Include global and cultural awareness in the curriculum, as many industries operate on a global scale. Create a feedback mechanism where students, alumni, and employers can provide input on the curriculum's effectiveness and relevance.

By implementing these strategies, we can create a curriculum that not only equips students with the knowledge and skills they need but also prepares them to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.

What would you like to convey to the plus-two graduates to study in Nepal?

First and foremost, congratulations on reaching this significant milestone in your educational journey. Your Plus-Two years have prepared you for the next chapter of your life, and now it's time to think about your future academic endeavors.

Nepal, with its rich culture, natural beauty, and growing educational landscape, offers a fantastic platform for furthering your education. Nepal is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Studying here will expose you to a unique blend of languages, cuisines, and customs. You'll broaden your horizons and develop a global perspective. The breathtaking landscapes, including the Himalayas, lush valleys, and serene lakes, make Nepal a truly remarkable place to study. Nepal is known for providing quality education at a reasonable cost. This can be especially appealing to students and families seeking affordable educational options. Nepal is home to numerous reputable universities and colleges that offer a wide range of academic programs. Whether you're interested in science, arts, commerce, or any other field, you'll find institutions that cater to your needs. Many institutions in Nepal offer practical and experiential learning approaches. Nepali people are known for their warmth and friendliness. Studying in Nepal can open doors to connect with people from various backgrounds and professions, providing valuable networking opportunities for your future career.

So, as you embark on this exciting journey of higher education, consider the wonderful possibilities that Nepal has to offer. Your experiences here can be life-changing and shape you into a well-rounded, global citizen.

Make sure to research the institutions and programs that align with your academic and career goals. We wish you all the best in your educational pursuits in Nepal.