SIT Students Learn About Asia’s Strategic Role in Business

• Dr Jacob Wood from James Cook University discussed Asia’s role in global trade.
• The lecture provided Southern Institute of Technology students with crucial international insights.
• Positive feedback highlighted the value of understanding Asia’s market dynamics.

Business students at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) recently attended a guest lecture by Dr Jacob Wood from James Cook University (JCU), Singapore. The lecture, titled “Trade and Economic Development in Asia – Asia’s Century,” focused on the strategic importance of Asia in global trade and its implications for New Zealand businesses.

Dr Wood, the Associate Dean of Research and an Associate Professor of International Trade and Economics at JCU, brought a wealth of knowledge to the session. With extensive experience in international political economy, trade policy, and research methods, he has been associated with SIT as a supervisor and marker for the Master of Applied Management (MAM) programme.

The lecture, held on July 4th, was attended by approximately 30 students from the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Management (PDAM) and MAM programmes, along with four staff members. Dr Sanjeev Acharya, Programme Leader (Postgraduate) at SIT’s School of Business and Management, emphasised the lecture’s relevance. “Asia’s strategic importance for New Zealand’s international business landscape cannot be overstated. As we deliver an International Management paper, having a comprehensive understanding of the Asian market is crucial for our learners.”

Dr Wood’s presentation provided valuable insights into Asia’s growing role in global trade and economic development. He discussed key economic trends and strategic developments, enriching the session with data and facts. Dr Acharya highlighted the importance of these insights, stating, “… Asia is one of the most populous regions and a major trading partner; understanding the Asian market is essential for New Zealand’s international business landscape.”

The session received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students. Gayan Jayawardana, a MAM student, described the lecture as “enlightening,” appreciating the comprehensive view it offered on how Asia is leading in various domains. Dr Acharya concluded that the knowledge gained from Dr Wood’s lecture would help equip SIT students to navigate and succeed in the global business environment, particularly in understanding the complexities and opportunities within the Asian market.