The inaugural Future China Advanced Leaders Programme jointly organised by Business China and Nanyang Technological University’s (NTU) Nanyang Business School made its debut week bright and early on Monday, 19 March 2012. The day kick-started with a motivating introduction by Business China CEO Ms Low Yen Ling, for the 25 participants who have been identified as future leaders or upper echelon managers of their organisations.
In the first week of the three segment programme specially customised for high calibre individuals, participants were given an intense introduction to a vast array of topics and issues surrounding past, present and future China. From understanding how China’s history shaped and influenced present China’s practices, to studying current political, economic and social China issues, and further on anticipating future trends, the programme was designed to comprehensively address the complex dynamics between all factors that are fuelling China’s rapid rise.
Furthermore, aside from business related topics, students were also exposed to Chinese arts and culture in order to gain an all rounded perspective of China. Lessons were designed to be held in an environment set up like an art gallery, allowing students to be immersed in a conducive atmosphere while writing calligraphy or getting an introduction to Chinese philosophy in the likes of Confucianism and also how Chinese literature, i.e. The Art of War, applies to doing business in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine was also part of the lessons provided for the students.
Break sessions were one of the highlights for the participants as they had the opportunity to connect with each other, exchanging ideas and insights with individuals from various trades. Lunch was hosted daily by the Business China Board of Directors who interacted and engaged participants in lively discussions.
The first day of the programme ended with a Welcome Dinner for the participants at Goodwood Park Hotel. Mr Chua Thian Poh, Chairman of Business China, welcomed all participants in his speech and highlighted the importance of understanding China and keeping track of its changes, especially in the aftermath of the National People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Congress. With imminent changes expected to take place in China, the Future China Advanced Leaders Programme “offers a unique blend of business and cultural elements, with the aim of arming the participants with tools for optimal strategic planning in China, enhancing their competitive edge as well as strengthening the bilateral ties between Singapore and China”, said Mr Chua.
As the first-of-its-kind general management course in the Asian region, the three-week Future China Advanced Leaders Programme integrates an in-depth study of China’s cultural, historical, political, social and economic paradigms. In the second segment of the programme, participants get to network with key business leaders and government officials during a week-long field visit to China. Courses are conducted by professionals from well-respected think tanks and universities, as well as business and government leaders from Singapore and China. They will also have the opportunity to build up their networks with key Chinese business leaders and government officials, visit Chinese enterprises and also learn to appreciate local Chinese culture through first hand experiences
With the conclusion of the first segment, participants are now looking forward to the start of the second segment – a week’s field trip to China from April 15-21, 2012.