Fudan works with overseas schools to boost business training

Shanghai-based Fudan University is working with prestigious schools abroad in cooperative programs to develop high-caliber business talent to meet China's need for business leaders.

Earlier this month, the university's school of management and the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (Tekes) agreed to continue a cooperation project.

The project is based on the school's MBA iLab program, which is designed to bridge students' managerial theories and practice in real business and social environment through real cases and professional guidance and resources.

A total of 25 MBA students participated in the project. With the management and business knowledge they learned, they provided ideas for five Finnish enterprises entering China's market and looking for business partners.

"This is a win-win cooperation. The project will not only help Finnish enterprises better understand the characteristics of the market in China, but also help our school cultivate the future business leaders," said Lu Xiongwen, dean of Fudan University's management school.

Over the years, the school has also worked with other overseas schools on cooperative programs to develop high-caliber business-management talent.

This year the school announced a double business degree - the global masters in management degree - with the London Business School, a move to meet growing demand for aspiring business leaders with experience in China and the West.

The degree features a combination of teaching models and real experiences from both the East and West. It will include business experience through company projects, some of which will be mentored by leading companies.

"The partnership with the London Business School will help us reach a higher level in terms of expertise. It will also help draw out of the best of the management systems employed in both the East and West, aiding the development of more capable leaders in the future," Lu said.

Andrew Likierman, dean of the London Business School, said: "This program will give its graduates a 'two-world' mindset, combining direct exposure to China and the West. The balance of theory and practice will ensure students gain a head start for the world's best business jobs."

The two-year program will be offered at the London Business School and Fudan University. Students will also visit other Asian countries.

wanghongyi@chinadaily.com.cn