Makati, Philippines – The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) proudly launched its pioneering Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, setting the stage for an ambitious academic journey.
The inaugural event was marked by compelling addresses from key figures in academia, Professor Jamil Paolo Francisco, PhD, Academic Program Director of the Executive DBA program, Professor Felipe Calderon, CPA, CMA, PhD, School Head of Washington SyCip Graduate School of Business (WSGSB), and AIM President and Dean, Jikyeong Kang, PhD.
Dr. Calderon delivered a heartfelt welcome address, sharing his personal journey and emphasizing the importance of humility and lifelong learning. 
The keynote address by Dr. Kang captivated the audience with insights into the Executive DBA program ’s unique value. Drawing on her extensive experience with DBA programs, Dr. Kang encouraged students to embrace their intellectual curiosity and maintain an open mind throughout their studies, “You are here not just to fulfill a need but to challenge yourself intellectually and professionally,” Dr. Kang remarked. “It is important to keep an open mind while you are exploring your topic, but also narrow your focus in a timely manner. Balancing broad exploration with focused refinement is crucial for making progress.”
Dr. Francisco concluded the convocation  by outlining the rigorous expectations and learning goals of the Executive DBA program . He emphasized that students would need to integrate knowledge with practical application and develop advanced research skills. “Our goal is to prepare you for data-driven decision-making by combining theory with robust evidence and analysis,” Dr. Francisco stated. He also highlighted the importance of balancing coursework with dissertation writing and using advanced research methods to tackle complex business problems effectively.
The Executive DBA program at AIM aims to redefine the benchmark for executive excellence by cultivating a new generation of business executives who are not only knowledgeable but also innovative in applying research to real-world challenges. The event served as a motivational launchpad for the students, highlighting the Institute’s commitment to supporting them throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Are you ready to take the next step towards redefining executive excellence? Discover how the Executive DBA program can transform your professional journey. Visit https://go.aim.edu/executivedba to learn more about the program structure, admission requirements, and application process.