In today’s world, where almost everything is available on a mobile screen, a question quietly troubles both the heart and mind: Is an MBA still as essential as it once was, or has it become just an expensive ticket to enter elite circles?
Recently, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath made a remark at Columbia Business School that reignited this debate. Candidly and humorously, he pointed out that a classroom full of MBA students collectively represents an investment of nearly 90 million dollars. In other words, simply being in that room is an “investment” where the real value may lie more in the people than in the curriculum.
Has MBA Become Purely About Return on Access
Earlier, this degree promised better jobs, higher salaries and faster career growth. But the reality is changing.
Today, knowledge is no longer locked inside classrooms. The internet and AI have made it accessible to everyone. In this new landscape, the true strength of an MBA seems to be shifting toward “Return on Access”, which means access to influential people and opportunities.
Students in top programs are not just studying, they are building relationships with future entrepreneurs, investors and leaders. Often, these relationships later turn into successful businesses and partnerships.
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The Emotional Dilemma Behind Choosing an MBA
On one hand, an MBA offers confidence, exposure and global recognition. On the other hand, its high cost becomes a heavy burden for many. This leaves young professionals stuck between two thoughts:
Is it worth spending so much money?
Or is it better to grow through skills and real-world experience?
Is AI Slowly Reducing the Value of an MBA
With AI tools and online platforms, learning has become easier than ever. Anyone can now learn business strategy, finance and leadership from home. However, an MBA is not just about knowledge. It offers an environment where ideas collide, perspectives evolve, and meaningful connections are formed.
This human element is something AI has not been able to replace yet.
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What Do Influential Leaders Say About Degrees
Elon Musk believes skills matter more than formal degrees. Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates also challenged the traditional importance of degrees. However, the truth is not everyone can follow their path. For most people, an MBA still provides a structured and reliable career route.
The Real Truth About MBA Today
An MBA today is neither completely useless nor essential for everyone. It has evolved into a platform that blends knowledge with a network. If you pursue it only for learning, the value may feel limited
But if you pursue it for connections, exposure and opportunities, it can become a turning point in your life.
Conclusion
The true power of an MBA no longer lies only in textbooks, but in the people you meet along the way. It is not just a degree anymore; it is an opportunity to sit in the right room, at the right time, with the right people. And perhaps in today’s world, that is where its real value lies.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information, expert opinions and recent discussions. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not promote or oppose any degree or institution.
Dr. Bidyut Barun Sarmah, with 22+ years of experience in print, electronic, and digital media, holds an MA and PhD in Mass Communication and Journalism. He has worked with AIR, Doordarshan, and the Publication Division under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. A published author and researcher, Dr. Sarmah writes extensively in both Assamese and English. He was also awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his study on journalistic literature—an achievement that highlights his depth of scholarship and contribution to media studies. At Nest of News, he leads the editorial team and contributes across diverse topics.