Includes reorganisation and restructuring of the Centre of Excellence for Direct Selling in Academics
Herbalife India, a leading global health and wellness company, has partnered with Shoolini University through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on December 7. This collaboration introduces Direct Selling as a specialisation in the university's online MBA and BBA programs.
The MoU includes the reorganisation and restructuring of the Centre of Excellence for Direct Selling in Academics (CEDSA) at Shoolini University, in partnership with Herbalife India. As a result, the MBA and BBA programs at the university will now offer a specialisation in 'Direct Selling Management', starting from the 2023-2024 academic session.
This course will equip students with corporate and entrepreneurial opportunities in the industry. Students will gain insights into effective sales strategies, customer relationship management, market analysis, and the regulatory environment of direct selling. Additionally, the course will focus on developing leadership and entrepreneurial skills, enabling students to innovate and adapt in this dynamic sector. This specialisation is not just about theoretical learning; it's also about practical application, preparing students for real-world challenges and opportunities in Direct Selling.
Co-Founder and President of Marketing and Innovation at Shoolini University, Ashish Khosla, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He said, “The MoU between Shoolini University and Herbalife International Pvt Ltd India is a significant step in our commitment to innovation, research, and holistic education. Our collaboration aims to blend academic knowledge with industry insights, providing unique growth and development opportunities in entrepreneurship, sales, health, and wellness.”
Herbalife India SVP and MD Ajay Khanna echoed this sentiment, highlighting the collaboration's role in deepening understanding of the Direct Selling industry. “This strategic alliance will not only provide students with essential skills and insights for excelling in this growing industry but will also elevate the Direct Selling sector in India,” he said.
A report from the World Federation of Direct Selling Association (WFDSA) last year placed India at 11th globally in direct selling. The industry, employing nearly six million people, has seen significant growth despite socio-economic challenges, offering career prospects to youth and individuals from Tier 2 and 3 cities, including women.
This partnership between Shoolini University and Herbalife India extends beyond academia, aiming to provide teaching modules for academic organisations interested in adding Direct Selling to their curriculum.
The Direct Selling industry, offering opportunities for full-time career development and entrepreneurship, emphasises the importance of skill enhancement. “This collaboration aims to foster employment, economic growth, and entrepreneurship in India's Direct Selling industry,” Ajay Khanna added.