Education knows no bounds, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of global business. EADA Business School’s International MBA students embarked on an incredible business trip to Singapore in May 2023 that not only expanded their knowledge but also enriched their cultural perspectives. This week-long immersion programme, hosted by the prestigious Nanyang Business School of Nanyang Technological University Singapore (NTU), offered an unparalleled opportunity for these students to delve into a world of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
This intensive programme included classroom sessions, visits to companies and labs, which undoubtedly provided fresh insights into technologies, digital transformation, and leadership within the industry.
During their time at NTU, the participants engaged with esteemed professors and industry experts which set the stage for a dynamic learning environment. The programme’s curriculum was meticulously designed to include a bunch of topics that are significant to the business landscape today.
One of the focal points was the Singapore Growth Strategy, through which students gained an insider’s view of the country’s economic development blueprint. The sessions on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning shed light on the cutting-edge technologies shaping industries. Furthermore, comprehensive discussions on Sustainability Initiatives in Singapore underscored the nation’s commitment to a greener future.
Singapore’s bustling ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship, its dedication to research and development, and its vibrant startup culture brought a fresh wave of inspiration for the students, encouraging them to fearlessly embrace their innovative thoughts.
Completing their academic experiences, the students embarked on a comprehensive campus tour and dove into the heart of innovation by visiting the awe-inspiring learning hub and the Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP). They also had the chance to see ERI@N’s (Energy Research Institute @ NTU) Mobility and Systems Engineering Lab – a collaborative hub for the designing, developing and testing of Autonomous Vehicles (AV) technologies and Power Electronics. During this visit, the students observed some prototypes and gained insights into future mobility solutions. Adding to the list of incredible campus buildings, the students also visited NTU’s eighth zero-energy building just before its official unveiling the following day.
The entire experience was complemented by a visit to Engie – a company renowned for its Department of Innovation and Incubation, and Mastercard – the second-largest payment-processing corporation globally.
However, the immersion programme was about much more than just classroom learning. Beyond academics, the students embraced the rich multicultural fabric of Singapore. As they roamed the vibrant streets in a humid climate, interacted with its people, tried the local cuisine which tantalized their taste buds and searched for authentic local experience, they had a true cultural immersion, bringing a profound sense of appreciation for diversity and an understanding of the world’s interconnectedness. Moreover, the tourist attractions such as the iconic Marina Bay Sands and the ethereal Gardens by the Bay truly brought out the city-state’s futuristic architectural wonders.
One of the highlights of the entire trip that had everyone excited for better or worse was ‘Durian’, a tropical fruit. Due to its peculiar and pungent smell, it is prohibited in many public places and public transport. Needless to say, some students absolutely loathed it, some had mixed reactions while some loved it.
In retrospect, this immersive programme was a confluence of education, experience, and exploration. It has certainly set a precedent for the integration of global perspectives into business education. An expedition that ignited transformation, as these students return to their daily routine, they do so equipped with a robust arsenal of knowledge and a fresh perspective. They stand prepared to employ the knowledge they’ve acquired about innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability in their future pursuits, thus enriching their personal lives and the international business landscape they’re poised to conquer.
Written by
Bhavya Swaroop
Participant of International MBA , class of 2023
A curious mind, critical thinker and a driven individual, Bhavya Swaroop is a graduate of the International MBA, class of 2023. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature in 2016. She has worked in a market research company where she was in charge of sales, content and constant innovation of a Spanish platform for customers. She has a keen interest in sustainable businesses and is looking forward to creating, leading and promoting sustainability initiatives. In her free time, she loves to go out and discover new places and experiences in Barcelona, read fiction and work on her novel.