The Indian Institute of Management Kashipur has announced that it will host the Management Education and Research Conference (MERC) 2026, with the theme 'Reimagining Management in an Era of Poly-crisis'. The conference aims to bring together academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss innovative approaches to management education and research in the face of multiple, interconnected global crises.
Conference Theme and Objectives
The theme of MERC 2026 reflects the growing recognition that traditional management paradigms are insufficient to address the complex, overlapping challenges of the modern world. These challenges include climate change, geopolitical instability, technological disruption, and social inequality, which together constitute a 'poly-crisis'. The conference will explore how management education can be transformed to equip future leaders with the skills and perspectives needed to navigate this turbulent landscape.
Key Focus Areas
- Sustainability and Ethical Leadership: Emphasizing the role of management in promoting sustainable practices and ethical decision-making.
- Digital Transformation: Examining the impact of artificial intelligence, big data, and other technologies on management practices.
- Global Collaboration: Fostering cross-border partnerships to address shared challenges.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Developing frameworks for organizations to thrive in uncertain environments.
Call for Papers and Participation
IIM Kashipur has issued a call for papers from scholars and practitioners worldwide. Submissions are invited on topics related to the conference theme, including but not limited to innovative teaching methods, curriculum redesign, and research that addresses the poly-crisis. The conference will feature keynote speeches by renowned experts, panel discussions, and workshops. Selected papers will be considered for publication in leading management journals.
Important Dates
- Abstract submission deadline: December 31, 2025.
- Notification of acceptance: February 28, 2026.
- Full paper submission: April 30, 2026.
- Conference dates: June 18-20, 2026.
About IIM Kashipur
IIM Kashipur is one of the newer Indian Institutes of Management, established in 2011. It has quickly gained recognition for its focus on innovation and sustainability in management education. The institute is located in the scenic foothills of the Himalayas and offers a range of academic programs including MBA, Executive MBA, and doctoral programs. Hosting MERC 2026 underscores its commitment to shaping the future of management education in India and beyond.
The conference is expected to attract over 500 participants from more than 30 countries. IIM Kashipur invites all interested parties to contribute to this important dialogue on reimagining management for a world in crisis.
