In a powerful display of academic-industry synergy, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) and the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), reaffirmed their commitment to shaping future-proof professionals through a dynamic seminar titled “What it takes to be a Sustainable Leader” on 16th May 2025.

Led by Prof Dr Kashif Hussain (Senior Head, School of Business and School of Hospitality and Tourism at APU), and coordinated, whilst serving as an emcee; Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj (Lecturer, School of Business at APU), the event drew students from various schools within APU and industry professionals into a vibrant dialogue on ethical and inclusive leadership, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 and 17 (SDG 4 and SDG 17).

Inspiring Thought Leadership



The keynote speech by Dr Christina Ooi, Board Member of CMI and recipient of the 2024 LinkedIn Top Voice, set an inspiring tone for the seminar.

Drawing from her extensive leadership experience and global insights, Dr Christina challenged attendees to move beyond traditional notions of authority and instead embrace leadership as a values-driven responsibility.

She emphasised that true leadership is grounded in empathy, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose, especially in a world facing complex social and environmental challenges.

Her thought-provoking message resonated across the room, sparking reflection and empowering attendees to rise with clarity, conscience, and commitment.

Empowering Educators with Global Credentials

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of CMI Affiliate Membership certificates to 11 APU lecturers, marking a significant step in their professional development journeys.

This globally recognised credential not only elevates their individual career profiles, but also enhances the academic ecosystem at APU by aligning teaching practices with industry-relevant standards.

The recognition also reinforces APU’s commitment to continuous academic excellence, ensuring that students benefit from enriched, future-focused learning experiences led by lecturers who are both academically and professionally empowered.

Student Perspectives

A few perspective from students:

1. “The seminar redefined leadership for me; not as a title, but as a purposeful act grounded in empathy and integrity.”
2. “It was eye-opening to see how sustainability and inclusive leadership are becoming essential drivers of real-world business strategy.”
3. “The dialogue between APU and CMI showed me how academic learning can be powerfully aligned with global industry standards to shape impactful leaders.”

Forging the future of Leadership
 

As the APU and CMI partnership continues to flourish, the shared vision remains steadfast; to nurture a new generation of leaders who are not only academically capable, but also ethically grounded and globally attuned.

Initiatives like this seminar serve as powerful catalysts in bridging the gap between theory and real-world leadership demands.

By seamlessly embedding professional development into academic pathways, APU is cultivating a dynamic and future-forward learning ecosystem; one where students are empowered to become industry-ready professionals and educators are equipped to inspire through both expertise and experience.