BPI President and CEO, Mr. Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco addresses the students
MAKATI, Philippines – The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) once again welcomed over 90 students as it celebrated its second General Convocation on Tuesday, 2 April 2024, at the AIM Main Campus. The event marked a significant moment for the AIM community, bringing together cohorts from the Executive Master in Business Administration (EMBA), Master in International Business Law (MIBL), and Master in Innovation and Business (MIB) programs.
The ceremony commenced with opening remarks from AIM’s very own President and Dean, Dr. Jikyeong Kang. In her address, Dr. Kang emphasized the rigorous learning journey the students are about to experience. “Joining an institution like AIM is not going to be easy. In fact, I almost always say to incoming students that this will challenge you.”
She noted how they will have to work together to push through the hardships and take advantage of the brilliant talent that surrounds them at the Institute. “Everybody sitting here has done something amazing, achieved a lot, are highly motivated –all of you are like that.” Despite the hard road ahead, Dr. Kang also reassured them that although the training will be difficult, AIM will always be there to support them along the way.
Following Dr. Kang's remarks, Professor Christopher Monterola, PhD, the head of the Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, & Entrepreneurship (ASITE) introduced the keynote speaker for the event. Mr. Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco, the Executive Director and President and CEO of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and a member of AIM’s Board of Trustees, delivered a keynote address that captivated the audience. Mr. Limcaoco's speech resonated deeply with the audience as he shared his experiences and imparted invaluable wisdom about the deeper meaning of learning. He emphasized the importance of building a knowledge base and a network of resources to move forward with one’s life and career. “Use the skills, use the facts that you will be taught in international business, in innovation and business, or in the MBA program to understand what’s important for people, for society, for yourself, for your family.” He reiterated that students must also take the time to learn people skills in negotiation and relationship-building as these will serve them in their leadership journey.
A total of 96 students from the EMBA, MIBL, and MIB programs were welcomed during the ceremony
Mr. Limcaoco also emphasized AIM’s goal to make leaders out of the students. He conveyed that AIM’s role is not just to make the students become good in business, but become a leader in business. Lastly, he explained that leadership is the culmination of three different skills. According to Mr. Limcaoco, “Leadership is about setting an aspiration, leadership is about providing inspiration, and lastly, leadership is about showing appreciation.” He expounds that a leader is a nexus who creates clear goals for those whom he or she works with, a leader is nice to his or her clients, and a leader knows how to appreciate wins, whether big or small.
Amidst the celebrations, guests and students were treated to welcoming drinks and a sumptuous dinner, fostering a sense of camaraderie and fellowship among attendees. The evening culminated in a campus tour, allowing students to explore AIM's state-of-the-art facilities and immerse themselves in the vibrant academic environment.
As the Second General Convocation came to a close, it left an indelible mark on the AIM community, serving as a testament to the Institute's commitment to excellence, innovation, and transformative education. In the coming months, these students will receive valuable knowledge, skills, and values that will mold them into world class leaders, ready to shape the globe and make a meaningful impact on society.