ICFAI’s Legacy of Mentorship Celebrated in New Book

At the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education (IFHE), the commitment to student success does not end at graduation; it evolves into a lifelong partnership of growth and guidance. This enduring philosophy is powerfully illustrated in the newly released book, ‘One Step at a Time’, a collaborative work by distinguished ICFAI alumna, medical doctor & entrepreneur Dr. Nischita Muppavarapu and her long-time mentor, Prof. Sudhakar Rao, Director of Branding at the ICFAI Group.

‘One Step at a Time’ stands as a testament to how ICFAI grooms winners by fostering deep, intergenerational intellectual bonds. Dr. Nischita’s journey - spanning 40 years of life and two decades of navigating professional crossroads - was shaped significantly by the 20 years of mentorship she received from Prof. Rao, proving that the university’s engagement with its students is an ongoing initiative for those inclined to be mentored. As noted by IIM Kozhikode Director Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, this narrative embodies "learning as becoming," blending intellect with humility.

Dr. Nischita Muppavarapu is a prominent Indian aesthetic dermatologist, entrepreneur, and diplomat. She holds an MBA (taken in 2005) and an MBBS (obtained in 2012), and later specializing in dermatology with an M.Sc. from Cardiff University. She is an internationally renowned cosmetic dermatologist and Managing Director of Desire Aesthetics in Chennai and Hyderabad. 

She was appointed as the first Honorary Consul of Costa Rica in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, in May 2025. In 2019, she became the youngest person ever appointed as a member of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Board. She is the author of the Telugu book "Aame Aakasam" (focused on historical women icons) and the 2025 memoir "One Step at a Time," which outlines her unique career path from an MBA to medicine.

Far more than a memoir, One Step at a Time offers a structured mentorship model for current students, encouraging critical thinking and interdisciplinary wisdom. It underscores that at ICFAI, mentorship is not merely an academic duty but a continuous process where alumni and faculty grow together. As Prof. Rao eloquently states, the book views progress "not as a revolution of noise, but as an evolution of purpose," highlighting the institution's role in guiding students toward meaningful, value-driven lives long after they have left the classroom.

One Step at a Time was launched recently by Mrs  Sailaja Kiran, Managing Director,  Margadarsi  Chit Fund and Kalanjali, at the inaugural session of the “International Conference on Women 5.0: Power, Process & Possibilities” held at the ICFAI University Campus, Hyderabad on 11th  December, 2025. Also the Chief Guest, Mrs Sailaja Kiran  in her address lauded the authors for their  commendable work of bringing out such an excellent book. 

Prof Debashis Chatterjee, Director, IIM, Kozhikode, in his foreword stated that the book’s rare honesty is a narrative of reflection rather than achievement. He notes how Dr. Nischita’s story embodies “learning as becoming,” blending intellect with humility, and mentorship with meaning. He also suggested that students should learn some key facets of life from this book such as; critical thinking that questions assumptions, interdisciplinary wisdom that connects seemingly disparate fields, and a deeply humanistic voice that values purpose over position.

On this occasion, Dr Nischita Muppavarapu  said "One Step at a Time" traces 40 years of living, 35 years of learning, and 2 decades of navigating choices and crossroads shaped by 20 years of mentorship, distilled into 12 chapters across 162 pages and 1 enduring lesson: “growth happens step by step." 

Prof. Sudhakar Rao, the co- author, in his speech said “Dr. Nischita, an alumna of ICFAI University, has remained in touch with me throughout her professional journey. As a mentor, I’ve had the privilege of guiding her through some of her most defining crossroads and sharing in her moments of discovery. Collaborating on this book has been deeply fulfilling. "One Step at a Time" sees progress not as a revolution of noise, but as an evolution of purpose. True change begins within - through reflection, resilience, and renewal. It’s not about how far we move, but how deeply we grow with every step.”

Distinguished guests present  at the event included,  Mrs Sobha Rani Yasaswy, Chair person ICFAI Society; Prof. P. Rajalakshmi, IIT, Hyderabad;  Dr. T Koti Reddy, Vice Chancellor (In-Charge) and Prof S Vijayalakshmi, Registrar, ICFAI University; and delegates from across the country .  

The book opens by questioning society’s inherited definitions of success. It introduces the “Three Circles of Success” - male, female, and universal - encouraging readers to consciously define success for themselves. This becomes the framework for the journey that follows.

Set in Kakumanu’s Mandala Praja Parishad School, the second chapter revisits rural schooling, gendered privilege, and the quiet influence of her grandfather, who taught her curiosity through everyday lessons in the fields. Teacher Haneef Sir appears as her first true mentor.

Transitioning to Kakinada and later to Andhra University, she charts her academic hunger and early exposure to disciplined study. Experiences of being underestimated shaped her resilience. The third chapter marks this first conscious step toward higher education and ambition.

Then, drawing from her experiences in Thailand, she reflects on Anchali, a young masseuse whose story embodies cultural preservation as progress. Parallels are drawn to Laxmi Agarwal’s acid-attack activism and Indira Nooyi’s corporate vision at PepsiCo - illustrating that history is made in the present.

Prof. Sudhakar Rao, her mentor at ICFAI, delivers a defining truth in Chapter 5: “There will come a day when one must look in the mirror and ask what they are doing with themselves.” Through an MBA project in a telecom company, Nischita learns that reflection and rigor define real growth.

A failed project and an unvarnished evaluation transform into a turning point. She learns that failure is diagnostic, not defining. ICFAI’s structured mentorship model contrasts sharply with the chaotic internship culture elsewhere - reinforcing her respect for guided learning.

Written from her years in medicine and management, Nischita then explores the allure and anxiety of entrepreneurship. From multiple hospital consultancies to early business experiments, she frames entrepreneurship as “purpose-driven independence” - a journey, not a leap.

On Prof. Rao’s advice, she undertakes a year-long apprenticeship - a “real MBA of experience.” Working with Dr. Lakshmi in Mumbai, Dr. Maio abroad, and Dr. Obagi in the U.S., she learns the 80/20 principle: only 20% of success is technical; the rest is psychology, business, and ethics.

A deeply emotional episode traces her nomination by Prof. Rao for the WCRCINT World’s Best & Emerging Leaders 2022 award at the House of Lords. Standing in London, she recalls Hampi’s Virupaksha Temple, realizing how far persistence - not privilege - has brought her.

Dr. Nischita’s appointment as Honorary Consul for Costa Rica marks a symbolic milestone. The “Pura Vida” philosophy - simplicity, presence, and bridge-building - becomes her leadership mantra. It redefines success from personal ascent to shared human impact.

Blending her roles as doctor, entrepreneur, and diplomat, she recalls moments of exhaustion and loss during the pandemic. The ritual of “three minutes of silence” with her team becomes a metaphor for mindful leadership - staying alive to life itself, even in crisis.

Invited back to the classroom for the Mentorship Clinic at IIM Kozhikode, she almost declines - until Prof. Rao reminds her, “The moment we think we’ve learned enough is the moment we stop growing.” Returning to learn, she closes the circle - student, mentor, and learner, all at once.

The book ends as wonderfully as it began: in reflection as motion. After 35 years of professional growth and 20 years of mentorship, the lesson remains simple - life rewards consistency more than speed; progress is personal, but purpose is shared.

ICFAI & Illinois Tech to Pursue Multiple Synergies

On November 20, 2025, the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, Hyderabad, unlocked a significant new gateway to the West by formalizing a strategic alliance with the Illinois Tech, Chicago. While the MoU explicitly outlines robust exchanges in engineering and management, a closer look reveals a potential powerhouse collaboration that goes beyond standard academic exchange, to the intersections of Design Heritage and Business Strategy. 

Uniquely, this partnership creates a tangible bridge between ICFAI’s School of Architecture and Illinois Tech’s historic Mies Campus - home to the legacy of modernist icon Ludwig Mies van der Rohe - offering ICFAI students unprecedented access to a living architectural laboratory. Furthermore, a distinct pedagogical synergy awaits, which is about fusing ICFAI Business School’s globally renowned Case-Based Learning with Illinois Tech’s reputation as a hard-tech innovation hub. This collaboration positions ICFAI not just to teach technology, but to translate Chicago’s applied science breakthroughs into viable business models, effectively creating a "Lab-to-Market" corridor between two global innovation capitals.

The formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), Chicago, marks an important milestone in ICFAI’s continued global engagement initiatives. The event was organized on 20th November 2025 at ICFAI Campus, Hyderabad.

The MoU was formally signed by Malllik Sundharam of Illinois Tech and Prof S. Vijayalakshmi, Registrar of ICFAI, marking the official commencement of the internationally significant partnership.

Prof T. Koti Reddy Vice Chancellor, ICFAI, 0in his address highlighted the university’s research culture, case-based teaching approach, and its dedication to expanding international collaborations that enrich student learning and faculty scholarship.  Mr. Raghunath Thota, Illinois Tech, in his talk, emphasized Illinois Tech’s commitment to global academic engagement and the many opportunities of the partnership  that offers collaborative research, innovation-driven education, and student development.

The Directors of ICFAI Tech, ICFAI Business School and ICFAI School of Social Sciences highlighted the implementation opportunities from the perspectives of their schools during the interactive session.  Present at the ceremony was the Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Directors, Deans and senior leaders of ICFAI along with Mr. Raghunath Thota, representing Illinois Tech.

Key highlights of the MoU: The MoU signed by the two institutions outlines several core areas of cooperation. These include joint research initiatives, faculty development opportunities, collaborative academic activities, and program-based partnerships that are expected to benefit both institutions. The MoU also outlines the exchange of students for short-term study, research immersion, and credit-bearing academic engagements, as well as faculty exchanges that would support teaching, curriculum development, and specialized research efforts. Additionally, the MoU encourages co-development of new academic programs, further strengthening interdisciplinary learning pathways across engineering, technology, business, and allied fields.

The partnership will significantly contribute to global learning experiences for ICFAI  students and enable faculty to participate in high-impact research with international peers. By integrating global academic practices and industry-relevant learning models, both institutions aim to create enriched educational opportunities that reflect the evolving needs of higher education in a globalized world.

The ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education (IFHE) is Deemed-to-be University under section 3 of the UGC Act 1956. ICFAI Business School (IBS) is a constituent of IFHE. More than  6,500 students are pursuing various programs in the Faculty of Management (ICFAI Business School), Faculty of Science & Technology (ICFAITech), Faculty of Law (ICFAI Law School), ICFAI School of Social Sciences  and ICFAI School of Architecture, NAAC, an autonomous institute of University Grants Commission has also accredited The University with ‘A++’ Grade with an impressive score (institutional CGPA) of 3.59 out of 4. ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education is now a Category-1 Autonomous Institution.

Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, is a globally recognized research-driven university situated in one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems. The university stands out as Chicago’s only technology-focused institution and is known for its strong emphasis on engineering, computing, design, law, business, and applied sciences. According to the Wall  Street Journal/College Pulse rankings, Illinois Tech is ranked #1 in Illinois and #22 in the United States for graduate salary outcomes, reflecting its strong career impact. Illinois Tech is also the #30 Best Value School and #117 Best National University (U.S. News & World Report, 2026). The university also holds the distinction of being recognized as an “Opportunity College and University,” awarded for its commitment to educational access and student success. A unique hallmark of Illinois Tech is its architectural legacy - its historic Mies Campus features one of the greatest concentrations of buildings designed by modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, including the iconic S.R. Crown Hall, a designated National Historic Landmark.

Why Even a Win-Win With the USA Will Be a Big Win For India

India seemingly faces stiff trade barriers from the United States, but in reality, these challenges are not as worrying as they might seem. India’s exports to the US, just about $78 billion a year, are tiny compared to its huge $4 trillion GDP - less than 2 percent. This means that even if US policies make selling to America harder, India’s economy won’t be badly hurt, since it mostly depends on its own people and growing trade with other countries.

The US often blames India for putting high tariffs or taxes on things like cars and electronics. For example, India has very high duties - sometimes up to 100 percent - on imported cars. But even if India cut these tariffs, American cars would still struggle to sell in India because they are far more expensive than cars from India, China, Korea, or even Japan. Indian customers want value for money, and local or Asian brands already meet these expectations at much lower prices. Removing tariffs would not suddenly open the floodgates for expensive US brands.

Trade talks now are caught in a web of international politics, especially because of the Russia-Ukraine war. Some in the US claim India’s oil purchases from Russia help fund the Russian war effort. But in truth, it is the US that has benefited hugely from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, selling over $68 billion worth of weapons to Ukraine since the war began. American companies, especially arms manufacturers, have made big profits while the war continues. Accusing India is more about politics than fact.

US decisions aren’t just about policy, they are influenced by business interests. Former President Biden’s government strongly backed Ukraine, partly because of his family’s connections to businesses there, and this has been well reported in the American press. The current President Trump is more selective, while arms sales continue, deeper US support for Ukraine has faded. Reports link some of Trump family’s business interests in Moscow, which could explain America's cooler approach to supporting Ukraine these days.

India has options. A zero-tariff trade deal with the US, where both sides drop taxes on many or even most products, could actually help India more, and not hurt it. With Indian exports like textiles, chemicals, IT services, and medicines, India could get more access to American buyers. Since US goods are expensive and not highly competitive in India, the risk of India’s market being swamped by US goods is low. Instead, Indian exporters could grow, learning from global standards and succeeding abroad.

But security remains a worry. The US keeps making overtures to Pakistan’s top military, especially welcoming their army chief with honors. This signals that Washington may still view Pakistan as a valuable partner, despite its poor track record on regional peace. This is quite ironic too, given the military animosity the US has with China, and how close China and Pakistan are. Trump family's business interests in Pakistan have also come under scrutiny recently. India must speak up in diplomacy, making it clear that stability in South Asia is non-negotiable.

There have been more pressure tactics. US officials recently raised the H1B visa fees, needed by Indian tech talent hoping to work in America, by almost 40 times. This is meant to push India diplomatically. But it could backfire, with the US tech industry relying on Indian engineers, and hurting them will cause problems for American firms, especially when local talent is in short supply.

India should not get distracted with all these. Instead, it should focus on building better ties with many countries, not just America. India is strengthening relations with the EU, UAE, ASEAN, and Latin American countries, opening up more trade channels.

India can also act quickly when needed. When US tariffs started rising, the Indian government recently responded by slashing GST rates on popular items just before the festive season, giving families more spending power and businesses a boost. Creative steps like tax cuts are a response to tough times and show India’s ability to adapt and thrive.

India’s biggest strength is indeed its booming home market. There are over 300 million middle-class consumers in India, and retail sales during Diwali 2024 alone had hit Rs 2 lakh crore - a sign of powerful domestic demand. By supporting small businesses, startups, and local supply chains, India can weather global storms. In the past year, Indian startups attracted $15 billion in new investment, proving India’s growing confidence.

In the end, the US trade barriers are not an existential crisis for India. Since Indian exports to the US are very small compared to India’s total economic size, and because US goods are not a big threat in the Indian market even without tariffs, India can confidently pursue fairer trade deals. By resisting political pressure, calling out misdirection, and pursuing reforms at home, India can turn challenges into stepping stones toward greater growth and global leadership.

IFHE Ties Up With University of Missouri, For Leadership in Global Business Education

In a landmark move that promises to redefine cross-border academic tie-ups, the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education (IFHE), Hyderabad, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Missouri, USA, and its prestigious Robert J. Trulaske Sr. College of Business. This five-year partnership opens new frontiers in faculty exchange, joint research, student mobility, and executive education, with a strong emphasis on creating impactful global learning opportunities. The tie-up specifically links Missouri’s renowned business school with IFHE’s flagship ICFAI Business School (IBS) Hyderabad - one of India’s top management institutions. With the vision of IFHE’s Vice Chancellor Prof. L.S. Ganesh and IBS Director Prof. K.S. Venugopal Rao, this collaboration is poised to blend academic excellence, innovation, and international exposure into a transformative educational experience.

The signing of the MoU between the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education (IFHE), Hyderabad, and the University of Missouri, USA, represents far more than a formal handshake. It’s a strategic step toward building a bridge of intellectual exchange between India and the United States. Held at the vibrant ICFAI campus in Hyderabad, the in-person ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries from both sides, underscoring the seriousness and scale of this partnership.

Representing IFHE were some of its most prominent academic leaders like Vice Chancellor Prof. L.S. Ganesh, a visionary academician known for his leadership in strengthening IFHE’s research culture and global collaborations; Prof. K.S. Venugopal Rao, Director of IBS Hyderabad, whose initiatives have continuously expanded IBS’s reach in industry-linked education; Prof. S. Vijayalakshmi, the Registrar; and Dr. Sitamma Mikkilineni, Dean of International Accreditation & Collaboration, who has been instrumental in forging global partnerships. Senior deans and directors from across IFHE’s various faculties also lent their presence, reflecting the institution’s collective commitment to the collaboration.

From the University of Missouri’s side, Professor Vairam Arunachalam, Director of the School of Accountancy, and Mr. Eric Jackson, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Becker Professional Education, joined the proceedings. Their presence not only symbolized Missouri’s enthusiasm for the alliance but also signaled a strong focus on areas such as accounting, finance, and professional certifications - domains in which both institutions have established reputations.

The MoU lays the foundation for deep cooperation in multiple spheres: faculty exchange programs to bring global perspectives into classrooms; collaborative research initiatives to address pressing global business and economic issues; student mobility programs for rich cultural and academic immersion; and executive education offerings designed for business leaders in both countries. The agreement also envisions the joint development of academic proposals, undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as tailored training and executive development initiatives.

The ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, a Deemed-to-be University under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, is home to over 6,500 students across five faculties: ICFAI Business School (IBS), Faculty of Science & Technology (ICFAITech), Faculty of Law, ICFAI School of Social Sciences, and ICFAI School of Architecture. IFHE enjoys the distinction of being a Category-1 Autonomous Institution, accredited with an ‘A++’ grade by NAAC and boasting a remarkable institutional CGPA of 3.59 out of 4.

At the heart of this MoU is IBS Hyderabad, the flagship management school of IFHE, celebrated for its industry-aligned curriculum, case-based learning methodology, and impressive corporate network. IBS consistently ranks among India’s top B-schools, producing graduates who are well-prepared for leadership roles in global organizations. Under Prof. Venugopal Rao’s stewardship, IBS has intensified its focus on global exposure, making this partnership with Missouri a natural progression.

Founded in 1839, the University of Missouri (often called “Mizzou”) is the flagship campus of the University of Missouri System and a proud member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), an elite consortium of leading research institutions in North America. Known for its comprehensive academic programs and strong research output, Mizzou attracts students from across the globe.

Its Robert J. Trulaske Sr. College of Business holds the distinction of being one of the oldest AACSB-accredited business schools in the United States. The College offers a full spectrum of undergraduate, MBA, and doctoral programs, emphasizing leadership, innovation, and experiential learning. Its deep ties with industry and its innovative approach to business education make it an ideal partner for IBS Hyderabad, which too is AACSB-accredited, in delivering cross-continental academic value.

Over the next five years, this MoU will see tangible academic and cultural exchanges that extend beyond classroom walls. Joint research projects could focus on emerging fields such as fintech, sustainability in business, and global supply chain resilience. Student exchange programs will expose Indian students to the academic rigor and multicultural campus life of Missouri, while American students will gain first-hand experience of India’s dynamic business environment.

The partnership also stands to benefit the corporate world, with executive education programs tailored for global business leaders, drawing from the combined expertise of faculty from both institutions. The ability to blend Missouri’s rich academic traditions with IFHE’s growing global footprint may well create new benchmarks in international business education.

The collaboration is not merely an institutional alliance but a shared commitment to shaping globally competent leaders who can navigate complex business landscapes with wisdom and innovation. With leaders like Prof. Venugopal Rao driving IBS’s vision, and Missouri’s long-standing academic excellence in play, this partnership is set to be more than the sum of its parts, and a leap toward creating a truly interconnected academic ecosystem.