A Jesuit management institute in Mumbai has launched a center for its students to study emerging markets in Africa. The Xavier Institute of Management and Research (XIMR) opened the “Centre for Africa Studies” in collaboration with the Makerere University Business School in Uganda. The center was opened by E. M. Barine, Kenya’s deputy high commissioner and Waswa Balunywa, principal of Makerere University’s Business School. “Together, XIMR and Makerere University Business School will shoulder the responsibility of enhancing the development of people from emerging nations,” said Father Paul Vaz, director general of the institute. He said the center is currently intended for students but would soon be open to firms wanting to understand Africa and learn how to conduct business there. It will launch certificate programs and in-company tailored programs for corporate professionals in due course, he added. K.N. Vaidyanathan, director of XIMR, said, the center aims to serve as a bridge between the people and cultures of India and Africa, and contribute to the economic and social development of both. “We believe Indian multinationals will have location-based and company-based strategic advantages in these regions,” he said. The students will develop case studies on topics such as African cultures, anthropology, African religions, consumer behavior and market structure. Initially, the center will offer a course on “Country Studies – Africa” for XIMR’s students, which will run for two semesters. After six months, the center will offer a certificate program for corporate professionals on “Doing Business in Africa.” Related report Keeping an eye on Church media centers IC13044.1638