Around the Kansai Region in 6 Days: Orientation Trip Kick-starts the GBS Programme

A week prior to the start of school, a group of 16 new Global Business Studies (GBS) students embarked on a quest thousands of miles from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), to Osaka for six intensive days of cultural integration, company tours and case analysis.

Striding in heels and donning business suits, the GBS students trekked the Kansai region to learn from the greatest field expertise and business gurus. From the epitome of aviation excellence within Cathay Pacific to the currency-shaped architecture of Osaka Exchange headquarters, the team read up on derivatives research and marketing strategies targeting company position reinforcement. To further investigate the Japanese business environment, the students made a rewarding visit to the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) for insights regarding promotional campaigns for foreign direct investments. On the other hand, witnessing Daikin’s patent-worthy research into air quality monitoring technology and emphasis on people-centred management was also an inspiring story to contemplate. In striving for environmental sustainability, Daikin is a pioneer in fulfilling corporate social responsibility, allowing the CUHK students to see for themselves how to create true meaning within a company.

Another leg of the GBS orientation trip included a visit to the renowned Graduate School of Business Administration at Kobe University, where giants within the academia shared their analysis of economic phenomena, including the Japanese asset price bubble and current market potential within the Greater Mekong Subregion market. It was an invaluable opportunity for the students to gain deeper insights into the global business environment and conduct market investigations themselves. Beyond professional presentations by the representatives of Kobe University, GBS students reciprocated with a speech on the educational culture of CUHK Business School, highlighting events such as case competitions and global leadership forums. The rare chance to exchange notes on the betterment of business learning with Japanese students was undoubtedly a memorable encounter for the GBS group.

Amidst company visits and presentations, a major objective of this orientation trip is to immerse GBS students into a culture of globalisation and open-mindedness. In achieving this, the group participated in cultural visits to the Osaka Museum of Living and Housing, Osaka Castle and even attempted traditional Japanese painting. Through observing the history and customs of Japan, the students came to appreciate the diverse cultures between the two countries, and were encouraged to establish a stronger bond with their Asian counterpart in achieving global success.

Mark Twain advocated, “Explore. Dream. Discover.” Within a short week, this batch of GBS students explored the horizon of the Japanese business world, discovered innovative market endeavours and envisaged a dream where they would soon become a part of this global picture. Armed with passion for knowledge and a badge of confidence, the GBS students will continue striving for betterment, knowing in their hearts that the best adventures are yet to come.

GBS students visit Kobe University 

 

By Elizabeth Chan

Chan is a current student from the GBS Programme at CUHK Business School.