In an era of disruptions characterised by generative artificial intelligence (AI), pandemics, geopolitical risks and a relentless pursuit of growth, how might universities continue to deliver transformative education and create societal impact? How adept are university leaders in steering their institutions and taking them far? Within this context, Singapore Management University (SMU) Executive Development (ExD) organised the very first Advanced University Leadership Programme (AULP), which commemorated the graduation of its inaugural cohort on 25 September 2024.
The AULP, which started in March 2024, was designed with the aim of equipping Singapore’s senior university leaders with the tools and perspectives needed to navigate the complexities of higher education in a rapidly changing world. Supported by the Ministry of Education (MOE), the programme was attended by 23 participants from autonomous universities including National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore University of Technology and Design, as well as SMU.
Speaking at the AULP graduation ceremony held on SMU campus, SMU President, Prof Lily Kong said, “I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations to all graduates. You have demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience throughout this programme. As you return to your respective institutions, I am confident that you will carry forward the lessons learned here, shaping the future of higher education in ways that will benefit generations to come.”
She thanked Education Minister Chan Chun Sing for gracing the occasion as Guest-of-Honour and underscored SMU’s commitment, with the support of MOE, towards ensuring that Singaporean universities remain nimble, adapting to the needs of the nation and to the world, with initiatives such as AULP.
Over the span of several months, participants of the AULP delved deeply into the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for their institutions through a rigorous, multifaceted and experiential curriculum that had been curated by ExD.
AULP commenced with a three-day module in Singapore that explored what it meant to lead with authenticity and adaptability in a digital age. Through insightful sessions, participants were tasked to reflect on the importance of grounding their actions in core values, while remaining flexible in the face of change and developing capabilities to co-create the long-term future.
Article source : SMU
