Indian Business School Gains AACSB Board Seat, Signaling Shift in Global Accreditation

Event summary

  • Varun Nagaraj, Dean of SPJIMR, has been appointed to the AACSB Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2026.
  • This marks the first time a representative from an Indian business school has served on the AACSB Board.
  • Nagaraj will represent the Asia Pacific region on the global board, serving a three-year term.
  • SPJIMR is ranked #35 globally and among the Top 3 in India by Financial Times MiM, and holds 'Triple Crown' accreditations (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA).

The big picture

The appointment signals a broader trend of globalization within business education accreditation bodies, acknowledging the growing importance of the Asia Pacific region. AACSB's move to include a representative from India, despite previous representation by individuals of Indian origin based outside the country, reflects a strategic effort to diversify perspectives and potentially expand its reach within a rapidly growing market. This could also be a response to increasing competition from alternative accreditation bodies and a desire to remain relevant to a changing landscape of business education.

What we're watching

Governance Dynamics
The inclusion of an Indian representative could shift AACSB's focus towards emerging markets and potentially influence accreditation standards for schools in the Asia Pacific region.
Competitive Landscape
Other Indian business schools will likely seek to enhance their profiles and potentially challenge SPJIMR's position as the leading institution for AACSB representation.
Regional Influence
How Dean Nagaraj leverages his position to advocate for specific changes or initiatives within AACSB will indicate the growing influence of Indian business education on the global stage.