The MBA Education Center of East China Normal University, Shanghai hosted a 10-day study tour for Leeds University Business School’s MBA students last month. The programme comprised of a mix of lectures delivered by the ECNU faculty, company visits and a cultural programme.
The lectures consisted of:
- Developments of Chinese Enterprises: Past, Present and Future
- How effectively is the Growth in China Financed by the Banking Sector?
- Nature within Walls – A Close Cultural look into Chinese Classical Gardens
- Chinese Economy: Development, Challenges and New Direction
The company visits (relating to manufacturing, logistics and the financial sector):
- Lenovo
- China Huaneng Group (Power Station)
- Jointown Pharmaceutical Group
- Standard Chartered Bank
The study tour provided the students with an opportunity to experience the challenges and opportunities facing organisations (both national and international) against the changing background of social, economic, political, environmental, legal and technological culture in China. Common throughout the programme were economic, social and demographic themes and the bearing they have had in shaping China historically, at present and in the future. The programme also enabled the participants to learn about the history of Shanghai; experience the sights and sounds of the vast city and sample the excellent, extraordinary food and meet some wonderful people.
The MBA students taking part were very impressed with the trip:
“For the shear experience of learning, team working and having fun whilst doing it, the study tour is the highlight of the MBA programme. Successfully hosted by the East China Normal University, the tour offered a genuine opportunity to learn from a wide range of experiences and new perspectives. The blend of academic learning and teaching, business visits and cultural exchange was excellent and nicely complimented a number of modules within the MBA programme.
“What surprised me was how quickly we became immersed in the key strategic and cultural challenges facing businesses in China, and the openness and innovation within the ensuing debates.” – Lee Dewhurst
“The MBA China study tour was a fantastic experience: blending a perfect combination of classroom learning, company visits and sightseeing. The mix of activities gave a fascinating, ‘below the surface’, insight into the economic, business and cultural aspects of China.
“We were extremely well looked after by ECNU, our host, with the organisation and lecturing being both of high quality, the people friendly and the discussions and conversations open and honest.
“I finally doff my cap to Steve King and Sian Williams for being such pleasurable University company and to the Group (you know who you are!) for helping those long days (and even later nights!) really go with a swing. Thanks to you all!” – Robert Beckram
Photographs from the tour can be found on our Flickr page.
