Retailers Association of India (RAI), the unified voice of Indian retailers, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Vignana Jyothi Institute of Management (VJIM), Hyderabad. Together, they will design and deliver a Bridge Course in Functional Retail Management. The agreement also extends Academic Membership benefits to VJIM students and faculty.
Strengthening Industry–Academia Collaboration
This MoU marks a key step in deepening industry-academia collaboration. It aims to prepare next-generation retail professionals with both managerial skills and practical operational knowledge. The programme directly addresses the growing gap between classroom learning and the evolving needs of the retail sector.
Programme Structure and Industry Exposure
Under the agreement, RAI will lead the delivery of the Bridge Course. The programme includes 30 hours of structured classroom training. In addition, students will gain exposure through live industry projects, guided store visits, and mentorship sessions with senior retail professionals.
The curriculum covers critical retail functions. These include Customer Experience Management, Store Operations, Merchandising, Shopper Behaviour, Retail IT and CRM, and Retail Marketing. As a result, students receive a balanced mix of theory and hands-on learning.
Industry Perspective
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, RAI, said:
“With the Indian retail sector evolving rapidly, there is a growing demand for professionals who have both management acumen and a practical understanding of retail dynamics. This partnership with VJIM enables us to prepare students not just for jobs, but for meaningful careers in modern retail.”
Academic Membership Benefits
As part of the Academic Membership, RAI will provide VJIM students with access to internships and short-term industry projects. The association will also support placement opportunities through its extensive member network.
Moreover, VJIM will receive complimentary invitations to RAI’s regional and national events. Faculty and students will gain access to STOrai magazine, industry insights, and legislative updates. In addition, five students will have the opportunity to volunteer at RAI’s retail summits and conventions.
Academic Strength of VJIM
VJIM brings over 30 years of academic excellence to the collaboration. The institute has a strong industry interface, global immersion programmes, and a modern curriculum. With more than 500 corporate tie-ups, VJIM offers a solid foundation in experiential and industry-oriented management education.
Commenting on the partnership, Prof. (Dr.) Bharat Bhushan Singh, Director, VJIM, said:
“Retail is no longer just a sector. It is a career landscape with enormous potential for innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. This MoU enables our students to better understand industry realities, improve employability, and solve real-world retail challenges.”
Programme Rollout and Duration
The Bridge Course will begin with an initial batch of 48 students. The programme will be hosted at VJIM’s Bachupally campus in Hyderabad. VJIM will manage student enrolment, programme logistics, and campus infrastructure. The institute will also provide lodging facilities for trainers.
The agreement is valid for one year from November 27, 2025. Both parties may extend it through mutual consent.
