Deakin forges global industry link to enhance experiential learning for MBA students.
Deakin University has strengthened its global industry ties by today signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with leading international aviation carrier Singapore Airlines (SIA).
The collaboration paves the way for a suite of new initiatives through Deakin’s MBA program that initially, will include real-life case studies for MBA students, joint business events with international speakers, internships, and supported global mobility for Deakin students.
Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin was joined by SIA’s General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Sales, Patrick Biggerstaff and Deakin Business School’s MBA Director, Associate Professor Colin Higgins, for the official document signing at the University’s corporate centre Deakin Downtown.
The signing was witnessed by Ms Leanne Lim, Regional Director from Economic Development Board (Singapore) and Mr Nik Guruprasad, Market Lead from Invest Victoria, a show of support from both governments.
‘This is a significant moment for Deakin in our ongoing efforts to deepen ties with industry, both locally and internationally,’ Professor Martin said.
‘Singapore Airlines is an ideal partner for Deakin. It is an international leader and innovator in the aviation industry and Deakin is inherently global in its outlook and at the forefront of education and research.
‘Our MBA students will gain access to some of the world’s leading aviation and business experts, inspiring them to achieve and make a difference in their careers. Deakin’s strategic focus on graduate employment outcomes has been extremely successful – we are known as a university that works hard to ensure our courses prepare students for the jobs and skills of the future. I look forward to seeing the exciting collaborations that result from this MOU.’
As part of the MOU, Deakin and SIA are also expecting to establish a co-innovation hub that will act as a conduit between the airline and Deakin’s academics, industry partners, students and local stakeholders.
Singapore Airlines General Manager Marketing and Corporate Sales, Mr Patrick Biggerstaff, welcomed the newly formed partnership with Deakin University.
‘This MOU will allow SIA and Deakin University to leverage off each other’s strengths and provide students with access to educational and case study opportunities within Singapore Airlines operations in Melbourne,’ Mr Biggerstaff said.
‘It will also provide our staff with access to Deakin University’s highly recognised teaching programme to assist them in their professional development.
In addition to these benefits, the MOU will have a strong focus on building our digital capabilities allowing us to work closely with Deakin and their industry partners as we look to engage with accelerators and start-ups in the Australian market to further enhance our digital capabilities.’
Meeting the international quality benchmark (EPAS) for a business program, Deakin’s MBA is one of the most highly regarded in Australia and renowned for its flexibility and industry connections.
Deakin MBA Director, Associate Professor Colin Higgins, has welcomed the Deakin-SIA MOU and said it represents an exciting new framework for mutually-beneficial educational initiatives between Deakin and one of the world’s most awarded airlines.
‘Deakin Business School continues to be a leader in developing and sustaining strong partnerships within local and global industries. This collaboration demonstrates how Deakin’s MBA program is continually informed by applied and relevant content that provides outstanding experiential learning and global credentials for our students.’