LUCKNOW : In response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the financial planning industry, Indian Institute of Management Lucknow, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FPSB India. The MoU, finalized today by Prof. Archana Shukla, Director-in-charge, IIM Lucknow, and Mr. Krishan Mishra, Chief Executive Officer, FPSB India, represents a significant advancement in enhancing financial planning education and certification processes in India.
Speaking during the MoU signing event, Prof. Archana Shukla, Director-in-charge, IIM Lucknow, highlighted the institution’s dedication to academic excellence and meaningful collaboration. She stated, “At IIM Lucknow, we are dedicated to providing our students with a holistic education that not only enriches their knowledge but also equips them with practical skills for today’s dynamic financial landscape. The complex financial problems we face demand modern, calculated solutions. This partnership with FPSB India reflects our commitment to innovation, industry-relevant education, and collaboration for the benefit of students and the industry. As we work towards a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ it’s crucial that our Finance and Accounting curriculum remains dynamic and relevant, preparing our students to effectively address evolving financial challenges.”
The partnership will introduce a certification program in Financial Planning, launching in the academic session 2024-25, and will be available to both students and working professionals.
Key outcomes of the MoU include:
Ø Introduction of Certification Program in Financial Planning: Launch of a comprehensive certification program tailored for aspiring students and professionals, blending academic rigor with practical skills.
Ø Enhanced Financial Planning Education: Joint effort to elevate the standards of financial planning education in India, ensuring students receive industry-relevant knowledge and training.
Ø Professional Certification Integration: Amalgamation of IIM Lucknow’s academic excellence with FPSB India’s certification process, offering a pathway to obtaining the globally recognized CFP® certification.
Ø Skilled Workforce Development: Addressing the industry gap by preparing a new generation of financial planners equipped with the skills to offer holistic financial services.
Ø Global Career Opportunities: Empowering individuals to pursue rewarding careers not just in India, but globally, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Krishan Mishra, CEO, FPSB India, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to partner with IIM Lucknow to advance financial planning education. This collaboration reflects our commitment to excellence and the need for modern solutions in a 51-year-old profession. FPSB, active in 28 territories including India, not only certifies professionals but also sets industry standards.”
Mr. Mishra added, “To students, start financial planning with your first salary and ensure you seek advice from credible sources. This partnership aims to bridge the skills gap and equip financial planners to offer comprehensive services.”
This initiative combines academic excellence with professional certification, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills in financial planning. The new program is set to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting the sector’s evolving needs.
Speaking about the need to introduce this program, Prof. Vikas Srivastava. Dean (Programmes), IIM Lucknow, said, “As we navigate through an ever-evolving financial environment, equipping our students with the skills and knowledge to excel in financial planning is imperative. IIM Lucknow’s partnership with FPSB India is a step towards fulfilling this crucial need and fostering a generation of adept financial planners.”
This initiative from IIM Lucknow and FPSB India is poised to significantly influence the financial planning sector. By combining rigorous academic training with professional certification, the program will prepare a new generation of financial planners with the essential skills to address the sector’s evolving needs. This effort is expected to drive growth and enhance the prosperity of both the industry and the broader economy.
