From navigating the unknown to embracing agility and mindfulness, the Guest Lecture Series: Navigating in a V.U.C.A World explored the complexities of the VUCA world and provided students with the skills, information, and tools they need to adapt and thrive in this ever-changing technological landscape.

Imagine a world where the ground beneath your feet is continuously shifting. That is the reality we face in today’s VUCA world, which is characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA).

Rest assured that Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is always ready and prepared for its students.

For example, the School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) recently hosted a special session with Mr. Jagmohan Singh, Campus Director of the Centre of Data Applied Science (CADS).

The Guest Lecture Series: Navigating in a VUCA World explored the complexities of the VUCA world and provided students with the skills, information, and tools they need to adapt and thrive in this ever-changing technological landscape.

Students learned about the impact of automation on business models, the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the skills required to succeed in today’s globalised industry.

Mr. Jagmohan sparked their curiosity with insights into the technology and AI that would affect their future jobs, driving introspection and accountability.

The session focused on more than simply facts and figures. It emphasised the significance of mindfulness in a constantly changing world, and all students learned how to be present, focus efficiently, and make great judgements despite the turmoil.

Resilience was highlighted as a key asset, allowing them to bounce back from setbacks and navigate challenges with ease.
 

The talk was not a one-way session as the participants actively participated in the Q&A sessions, blending mindfulness practices, and even playing the Flappy Bird game to simulate the emotional rollercoaster of navigating uncertainty.

This hands-on approach strengthened their knowledge and made the learning experience more interesting.

Embracing Agility and Mindfulness

“The talk highlighted our generation’s reality and how we deal with our subconscious brains, as well as the expanding digital architecture of human ecology,” claimed Digital Marketing student Muhammad Zair Khan Durrani.

Sabrina Wee Shi Yun, his classmate, felt that “The talk offered practical advice for navigating the VUCA world’s challenges by embracing its complexities, individuals and organisations can position themselves for success.”
 

And Yap Siaw Ling discovered, “The main message is to recognise the ever-changing nature of our reality. Embracing this instability allows us to develop adaptation, a critical talent for future leaders.”

Ms. Harjinder Kaur, SoMM Senior Lecturer, added that this topic is exciting since our students in the future will need to embrace the VUCA world and form themselves into agile learners.

She added, “Focusing on what we can control, viewing problems as opportunities for growth, and retaining a feeling of hope enable us to go forward with confidence. The VUCA world is unpredictable, but by embracing adaptation, awareness, and teamwork, we can design a prosperous future.”

This Guest Lecture Series was much more than just learning; it was about kindling students’ interest, providing them with necessary skills, and cultivating a mindset for prospering in the dynamic VUCA world, as APU students move forth with confidence and navigate their future.