The International University of Management (IUM)’s Graduate School of Business held an Open Day in Windhoek, bringing together prospective students, professionals and academics to discuss postgraduate education, leadership and business development.

The event was held under the theme “Shape the Future of Leadership and Business Excellence”.

IUM Founder David Namwandi reflected on the institution’s growth since its establishment, noting its humble beginnings.

“It’s a university which has got humble beginnings. There was a time when people could call it a Mickey Mouse institution. It’s an institution which started with one student and one lecturer… Today the institution is making meaningful contributions to the economy of this land,” Namwandi said.

Today, the institution has over 28,000 students enrolled in various programmes, including certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees and PhDs.

Discussions at the Open Day also touched on changes in the economy, technology and the workplace.

Dr Blessing Tafirenyika, IUM’s Director of the Graduate School of Business, said the world is experiencing radical transformation, be it economically, socially, or in terms of the geopolitical and technological space.

“So with all that, it has led to economic uncertainties, sustainability issues and shifting workplace expectations. And that’s why we are all trying to chase and see how we can remain relevant in the business space,” Tafirenyika said.

The role of postgraduate studies in developing leadership skills was also discussed.

Dr Jacobs Shihele, an IUM Lecturer in HR Management, said choosing a graduate school for postgraduate studies is one of the critical choices individuals have to make.

“Because there’s a graduate school, any graduate school in general, you are hoping to be shaped or moulded as a leader: a leader that is ethical, a leader that is innovative, a leader that can take strategic decisions,” Shihele said.

The Open Day gave prospective students an opportunity to learn more about postgraduate programmes and engage with the Graduate School of Business.