At a convocation, 26 business leaders graduated on 9 October 2017 from the one-year Executive Development Programme (Mandarin) by U SME and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). This marked the first batch of graduates since the programme, aimed at future-proofing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), was announced in December last year.
SUSS President Cheong Hee Kiat and NTUC Assistant Director-General (ADG) and Director of U SME Yeo Guat Kwang presented certificates to the graduands at the venue.
In a welcome address, ADG Yeo urged attendees to continue learning to stay ahead of fast-changing consumer demands and economic uncertainties.
Key Takeaways
Speaking in Mandarin, Director of Pyrotech Edmund Toh shared: “What I cherish most is the friendships. It is rare for SME bosses to get together and exchange pointers. Although we are from different industries, business philosophies and good practices are applicable for all. Several of us are inspired to collaborate or restructure our businesses. Moving forward, we are thinking of setting up an alumni group so we can grow our network.”
Another course participant benefitted differently.
“As the second generation business owner, I find it difficult at times to convince the management to make certain decisions because for so many years, they have been running the business using their methods. Through this course, I am able to communicate with my parents better by exploring the new concepts with the older classmates here and understanding their perspectives first.
“It is also good to keep myself updated on the market conditions and technological disruptions so I can bring them back to my company. I’ll strongly encourage my parents to join the next intake,” said 33-year-old Managing Director of MTM Skincare Kelly Keak.
Interested parties can e-mail sme@ntuc.org.sg for more information on U SME-SUSS Executive Development Programme.
