AIM equips Asean's next leaders for evolving business landscape
The Asean economic integration this year may be a massive leap towards the "Asian Century", but it does not come without risks and challenges. The success of the anticipated era rests heavily on Asia's decision-makers in the public and private sectors, whose collaboration is integral to the region's economic growth.
The Asean economic integration this year may be a massive leap towards the "Asian Century", but it does not come without risks and challenges. The success of the anticipated era rests heavily on Asia's decision-makers in the public and private sectors, whose collaboration is integral to the region's economic growth.
"Equipping Asia's young and upcoming business leaders with the skills to navigate an evolving global landscape in the Asean context is imperative now more than ever," says Steven DeKrey, president of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM). "With the upcoming integration, this means preparing management for that huge new market of 600 million people and their different cultures."
The pioneer in Asia's international management education, AIM recognises that such preparation goes beyond the knowledge of concepts and technologies. With the mission to develop practising managers in Asia's emerging markets, the institute was established through the collaboration of Asian business leaders, academicians and the Harvard Business School - from which it has inherited the student-centred case method.
"There may be 10 schools in the world that have AIM's level of student-centred learning," DeKrey says. "Why does it matter? Leadership positions require quick thinking, communication, collaboration, teamwork, analysis, negotiation and decision-making - all of which are developed through the case method."
AIM offers a Master in Business Administration programme with full-time and executive options, a Master in Development Management programme, and open enrolment and customised programmes for business and non-business organisations.
Approaching its 50th anniversary, AIM is intensifying its Asean focus with innovative programmes and initiatives such as the Stephen Zuellig Graduate School of Development Management. Launched in 2013, the school seeks to prepare leaders of government and non-government organisations for their roles in the developing Asean region.
"As an applied management and business-focused school, we are deeply connected with various industry leaders in the region. Our case studies are also aimed at addressing specific industry issues and problems," DeKrey says.
