Innovating Business Education: Our Insights from the IACBE Conference

AUS’ Dean of Academics, Dr. Gaidi Faraj, recently attended the Region 9 International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) Conference, where he led a presentation on integrating project-based learning in business education. The conference, held from October 16-18, 2024, at the Swiss School of Management in Milan, and organized by Lisa Marchese, was a vibrant gathering of educators and industry leaders focused on key themes such as internationalization, partnerships, sustainability, and inclusivity in higher education.

Reflecting on the event, Dr. Faraj shared, "It was inspiring to connect with peers from across the region and exchange insights on how we can collectively enhance our educational practices. The discussions around integrating AI into business curricula and fostering cross-cultural collaborations were particularly impactful."

The IACBE provides immense value to its member schools by facilitating such conferences that encourage collaboration and innovation. "The IACBE's commitment to advancing academic quality through accreditation and professional development is vital for preparing students to meet the challenges of a global marketplace," Dr. Faraj emphasized. IACBE was represented at the conference by Laurie Yates, the Director of Accreditation, and Dr. Elizabeth Soliday- Naui, the Region 9 President.

Presenting at the conference allowed our Dean to showcase the innovative ‘Solutions Lab’ course at the AUS, which bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application through real-world problem-solving. "This approach not only enhances students' academic understanding but also equips them with essential skills like teamwork and communication."

Other presentations included Massimiliano Bracalé, Founding President of the Swiss School of Management speaking on the Internationalization of Business Education and a talk on integrating AI into business school curricula by Daniele Plosch and Federico Costa. Participants were also treated to a deep dive of the fashion industry and the unique role of fashion schools by Nicola Guerini, Director-General & Professor in Entrepreneurship at the Milan Fashion Institute, and a dynamic presentation by Sangwon Park on how the Paris School of Business is using infographics to communicate with students.

Overall, the Region 9 IACBE Conference was a testament to the power of collaboration and shared learning in driving educational excellence.