AIM’s Zuellig School welcomes the MDM Class of 2020
On January 22, 2020, the AIM Stephen Zuellig Graduate School of Development Management (ZSDM) officially welcomed the Master in Development Management (MDM) Class of 2020: 37 students representing 7 Asian countries a wealth of experience from various fields and disciplines.
The convocation was led by President and Dean Dr. Jikyeong Kang; Associate Dean Dr. Jamil Paolo Francisco; MDM Academic Program Director Dr. Arnil Paras; Visiting Professor Dr. Vinod Thomas; ZSDM School Manager Mr. Paul Tongson (representing ZSDM School Head, Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go); and UN Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador for the Philippines Ms. Antoinette Taus. AIM professors across schools and programs also graced the event.
“Each of us adds something totally unique to this Institute,” said Dr. Kang. “I encourage you to make the most out of your student life by finding orbits and communities to belong to. AIM is a good place to build relationships with peers and mentors who will enrich and fuel your passions and objectives.”
The Class of 2020 now the 31st batch of MDM—represents a diverse mix from government, business, academia, defense, and nonprofit. Their ages range from 25-40 years old, with male students (27) outnumbering the females (10 ).
Dr. Paras assured the class that if and when they hit rough patches, the AIM community—including professors, staff, and fellow students—is ready to help. “Knock on our doors anytime, and we’ll be happy to listen and give you advice,” he said.
Inspirational speaker Ms. Antoinette Taus exhorted the students to become “experts at learning and not quitting”, a relevant skill to acquire as they go through pain and suffering not only in academics but also in life. She encouraged students to wake up every day believing in their power to change the world. “You are brave. You are complete. You are change,” she proclaimed.
The 12-month, full-time MDM program epitomizes AIM's mission of creating meaningful and sustainable progress in Asian businesses and societies, instilling in its courses public value creation, holistic achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, and the equitable distribution of opportunities and resources in Asia and beyond. The program develops graduates to become: 1) effective managers of development; 2) development managers with a global perspective; 3) analytical thinkers and decision-makers; and, 4) effective communicators of development discourse.
Upon completion of the program, MDM graduates are expected to involve themselves in value-based work that contributes to reducing poverty, promoting prosperity, deepening inclusion, building resilience, and strengthening sustainability within the region, hence helping achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and beyond.