IICA and WNS Global Services Launch YBRANT Programme Focused on CSR, ESG, and Sustainability
The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) has launched the IICA–WNS Ybrant CSR, ESG & Sustainability Program in partnership with WNS Global Services. The event took place on November 11, 2025, and featured notable speakers including Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Director General & CEO of IICA, and Mr. Gopal Agarwal, Head of CSR at WNS Global Services. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders who prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in their business practices.Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh highlighted the significance of the Ybrant Program as a pivotal step in shaping future leaders who are committed to sustainability. He stated that the program seeks to integrate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and sustainability into mainstream management education. The goal is to prepare students for leadership roles that not only focus on business success but also emphasize positive social impact. Singh envisions a future where business is seen as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive development, rather than merely a profit-generating entity.
The program reflects a growing recognition of the importance of CSR in India, with expenditures rising dramatically from ₹10,065.93 crores in FY 2014–15 to ₹34,908.75 crores in FY 2023–24. Over the past decade, companies have invested more than ₹2.2 lakh crores in CSR initiatives. This trend underscores the need for professionals who can balance profit-making with responsible business practices that yield societal benefits.
Collaboration Between Sectors
Mr. Gopal Agarwal emphasized that the Ybrant Program represents a strategic collaboration among government, corporate sectors, and academia. The initiative aims to instill the principles of sustainable development in young minds, preparing them for future leadership roles. The program employs a blended learning model that combines academic rigor with insights from industry experts. This approach ensures that students gain practical exposure through case studies and real-world applications.
Participants will receive certification through IICA’s digital credential system, which can be verified via QR codes and shared on platforms like LinkedIn. This innovative method of credentialing aims to enhance the employability of graduates by showcasing their commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility.
Program Structure and Accessibility
The Ybrant Program spans six months and includes a comprehensive curriculum consisting of 22.5 hours of academic sessions and 18 hours of fieldwork. Students will engage with 15 modules that cover a range of topics, from the fundamentals of CSR and sustainability to advanced themes such as global CSR trends, Indian CSR laws, impact assessment, ESG reporting, corporate governance, and leadership.
Weekly live sessions will be conducted with IICA faculty and industry experts, providing students with direct access to knowledge and mentorship. The program is hosted on IICA’s online Learning Management System, making it accessible to participants from across India and even abroad. This flexibility allows students to engage with the material at their convenience, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Participation and Conclusion
The launch event attracted over 250 students from five prestigious academic institutions, including IIM Shillong, CHRIST University Bengaluru, Banasthali Vidyapeeth, Symbiosis International (Deemed to be University) Pune, and St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) Mangalore. This diverse participation underscores the program’s appeal and the growing interest in CSR and sustainability among students.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Ankita Sharma, Senior Research Associate at IICA, and was moderated by Ms. Sana Farid, Research Associate at IICA. The successful launch of the IICA–WNS Ybrant Program marks a significant step toward fostering a new generation of leaders dedicated to sustainable business practices in India.
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