Jamshedpur : The second semester of the first ever �Global MBA Programme� launched in partnership by three leading management institutions in the world- XLRI, Jamshedpur- India, Weatherhead School of Management of Case Western University, Cleveland- USA and School of Economics & Management of Tongji University, Shanghai- China commences at XLRI- Xavier School of Management.
H.M. Nerurkar, chairman, XLRI�s Board of Governors, inaugurated the Indian leg of the program in the institute�s newly constructed state-of-the-art International Center.
The event was attended by the pioneering class of 47 students from five countries- India, China, USA, Belgium and Iran in presence of Fr. E Abraham, S. J. Director of XLRI, Dr. Jittu Singh, Chairman of International Relations at XLRI and Director of the Global MBA program and other dignitaries.
Prior to this, the cohort of students started the first semester of the programme in Shanghai, China in August, 2013 and after the completion of the second semester in India in April, 2014 they will be travelling to Case Western University, Cleveland, USA for the third semester.
Thereafter, students will return to their respective �home schools� for their final semester to complete courses in line with their local graduation requirements.
Welcoming the students and guests on the occasion, Dr. Jittu Singh, Chairman of International Relations and Director of the Global MBA program, pointed out in his introductory address that the Global MBA program was conceived with multiple objectives in mind.
Apart from developing proficiency in the functional disciplines of management, it aims to develop a new breed of executives well versed in different cultures, and capable of being effective anywhere.
It also seeks to build bridges of understanding to connect India, China and USA�three of the most important countries in today�s world.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Nerurkar pointed out that the business world is rapidly becoming borderless.
Products may be manufactured in one country for markets in another country or continent; and the talent required for related activities may be sourced from several nations. Under these circumstances, it is essential that corporate executives develop a broader global mindset than in yesteryears when businesses tended to be localized.
He too emphasized the need for firms to go beyond profit-making to identify themselves with, and enrich, the communities in which they operate.
Fr. E. Abraham, Director of XLRI, spoke with justifiable pride about the huge investments the institute has made in upgrading and expanding its infrastructure for its various ongoing as well as the Global MBA programs.
He cited the new International Center as an example. Added to it soon will be a new Learning Center with state-of-the-art classrooms, and a new residence to accommodate 400 students. He also highlighted the Jesuit mission to develop socially conscious citizens.