Holistic Student Development: NMIMS Six-Dimensional Approach
Objective:
The primary objective is to ensure the holistic development of students by nurturing their intellectual, physical, emotional aesthetic, social, and spiritual capabilities. NMIMS aims to create well-rounded employable, socially sensitive and responsible individuals equipped to excel in various facets of life, contributing positively to their personal growth, professional success, and society at large.
The Context
Recognizing that true success extends beyond intellectual achievement, NMIMS has adopted a comprehensive approach to student development, grounded in six key dimensions: intellectual, physical, emotional aesthetic, social, and spiritual capabilities. This Six-Dimensional Model ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge, attitude, skills, and human values necessary to succeed in all areas of life. Through this approach, NMIMS ensures that students are not only prepared for successful careers but also for meaningful lives as empathetic, creative, and responsible global citizens. This approach aligns with NMIMS mission of producing leaders who are equipped to contribute positively to the world and drive sustainable change in their respective fields.
The Practice
At NMIMS, significant efforts are made to encourage students to participate in value-based learning initiatives, focusing on their intellectual, physical, emotional, aesthetic, social, and spiritual development.
Intellectual
At NMIMS, intellectual development thrives within a dynamic and forward-thinking environment. The university's curriculum framework is developed to foster critical thinking, research, and innovation, empowering students to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world. Leveraging its autonomy as a Deemed university, NMIMS continuously aligns its curriculum with contemporary needs, (NEP) and internship embedded learning. In line with this approach following initiatives are taken
- Industry partnerships with global leaders such as Bosch-Rexroth and Accenture
- Collaborations with prestigious international universities,
- Value-added and interdisciplinary Courses
- Using advanced pedagogical tools
- 5% of its courses taught by industry experts
- Adopting a learner-centric approach through the implementation of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Assurance of Learning (AOL),
Physical
The university offers state-of-the-art sports facilities, including gymnasium, dedicated sports arena, to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle. It is promoted through
- Organising activities such as intra-mural sports, the Fit India campaigns, yoga sessions, and health awareness programs, intra-school sports competitions.
- Facilitating the students by providing guidance through specialized coaches.
- Acknowledging the students representing NMIMS at state, national, and international levels by funding and reimbursement of travel expenses.
- Providing Sports scholarships
Social Responsibility
NMIMS fosters a deep sense of social responsibility amongst students, encouraging students to actively contribute to society. Social service and empathy are cultivated through
- Establishment of Social Responsibility Forum which organizes activities like Ek Prayas – Social Conclave, Vagyuddha, Organ Donation Drive, Free Assessment and Treatment Camp throughout the year.
- Visits to old age homes, orphanages, and schools for mentally challenged children.
Aesthetic
University encourages active engagement for students in creative and cultural pursuits. Students are provided with numerous platforms to explore their talents in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts,through university-organized cultural festivals like Pragna by SBM, Satva by the School of Engineering, and Urja by the School of Pharmacy, Innovation Challenge. NMIMS also offers courses in music and arts, with facilities such as piano practice spaces, encouraging students to pursue their artistic passions.
Additionally, NMIMS supports students’ participation in prestigious platforms such as MUN and NASA, where they have received notable recognitions and accolades.
Spiritual Well-being
Recognizing the significance of inner growth and ethical grounding, NMIMS places a strong emphasis on promoting spiritual well-being. Through a variety of activities aimed at fostering mindfulness, self-awareness, and value-based leadership, the university empowers students to grow both personally and professionally. Initiatives such as the celebration of International Yoga Day, meditation workshops, courses on Human Values and Ethics, and open dialogues on spirituality provide students with a deeper sense of purpose and moral responsibility. In alignment with NEP 2020 guidelines, NMIMS has also integrated yoga into the curriculum of select undergraduate programs, further reinforcing the connection between physical, mental, and spiritual growth for students.
Emotional
NMIMS provides a robust support system, including access to counselling services, stress management programs, and peer support networks. The Student Council plays an active role by organizing events like Nukkad Nataks and hosting guest lectures to raise awareness on mental health and stress management.
In addition, NMIMS implements a mentor-mentee policy, providing students with personalized guidance beyond academic concerns, and offers support through a dedicated team of counsellors to address emotional and personal challenges.
Evidence of Success
The successful implementation of various initiatives at NMIMS is evident in the growing student participation and achievements across multiple areas. A rising number of students are volunteering for these activities, with significant accomplishments in sports tournaments and extracurricular activities, NMIMS students have also bagged more than 137 national and international awards, showcasing their talents and hard work on a global stage. Our Alumni distributed free masks to police officials, and NMIMS extended catering facility to doctors serving selflessly to society during COVID times.
A testament to the success of these initiatives comes from our alumni, many of whom have become successful entrepreneurs and leaders in their fields. They continue to give back to their alma mater—not just financially, but by mentoring and guiding current students in placements and higher education opportunities. Their contributions have been instrumental in achieving a 75% placement rate over the last five years and helping 40% of our students pursue higher education.
Problems Encountered & Resources Required
- Demographic challenges related to students' commute times, as many face long travel hours to and from home.
- Balancing academics and extracurricular activities can be difficult, as students strive to meet both their academic obligations and engage in extracurriculars in line with the institution's policies.
- Peer pressure arising from diverse student backgrounds, as not all students share the same mindset or experiences, can sometimes create challenges in adapting to the campus environment.