INDEX Symposium gathers global educators to take experiential learning to new heights

In his welcome address, Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, emphasised the importance of transformative educational approaches and underscored the critical role of INDEX Symposium as a platform for sharing insights and advancing experiential learning.

Professor Timothy Clark, provost of Singapore Management University (SMU), also remarked, “The INDEX Symposium has become a platform where we challenge conventional learning models, exchange best practices, and forge new collaborations.” He highlighted the crucial role of academia and industry collaboration in equipping students with the skills necessary for the future.

Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, stressed in his welcoming speech the importance of transforming educational approaches to keep pace with our rapidly changing world

Professor Timothy Clark, provost of SMU, highlighted the crucial role of academia and industry collaboration in equipping students with the skills necessary for the future

Themed “Future-Ready Global Business Education: Enhancing Experiential Learning through Industry and Interdisciplinary Collaborations,” the symposium began with a panel discussion moderated by Dr Fred Ku, associate dean (undergraduate studies) at CUHK Business School, who was also the Convener of the 2024/25 INDEX Symposium. Various stakeholders shared insights on how corporate projects provide real-world exposure for students while adding value to businesses. Student representatives were also invited to share their first-hand experiences.

Panellists from left to right: Ms Joanne Leung (BBA-JD Year 3), Mr Oscar Yu (GBS 2024), Dr Anson Au Yeung, assistant dean (undergraduate studies), CUHK Business School, Dr Jac Leung, lecturer, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Mr Steven Tsoi, CEO & co-founder, Sonova and chief impact evangelist, Social Ventures Hong Kong, Ms Melody Keung, general manager, Taikoo Sugar Limited and Dr Fred Ku, associate dean (undergraduate studies), CUHK Business School

Panellists from left to right: Mr Kevin Koh, Head of SMU-X, Singapore Management University, Dr Fred Ku, associate dean (undergraduate studies), CUHK Business School; Ms Olivia Ma, executive director, VolTra Hong Kong, Dr Hoe Chin Goi, professor, NUCB Business School, Mr Edmund Chan, co-founder & COO, Meat The Next, Ms Jennifer Lin, associate head of Feminine Care Brands, International, Kimberly-Clark and Dr Andrew Yuen, director of EMBA Programme, CUHK Business School

Another panel featured speakers from start-ups, NGOs, FMCG industry and educators who discussed their experiences in tackling challenges in industry-academia collaboration. Topics ranged from faculty engagement to managing student expectations and business priorities, providing valuable insights to the participants.

In addition to the panel discussions, more than 20 parallel sessions were arranged, featuring esteemed speakers who shared cutting-edge models of experiential learning, innovative approaches to industry partnerships, and the resources needed to bring these strategies to life. The sessions delved into the transformative role of experiential learning and the power of interdisciplinary collaborations in higher education. Both presenters and participants gained fresh ideas through immersive activities and invigorating discussions.

Initiated by SMU in 2023, the INDEX Symposium serves as a catalyst for fresh ideas in experiential learning, reaffirming the commitment of institutions across the Asia Pacific to redefine education for the future. Beyond professional insights and academic advancements, the symposium offers participants ample opportunities to bond, creating a supportive community dedicated to advancing experiential learning.