International Immersion in Thailand Cultivates Innovation and Global Acumen in Management Students

The quest to gain holistic exposure to the evolving global business landscape, focused on innovation and managing disruptions due to technology in business today, led students from Ahmedabad University's Amrut Mody School of Management to Thailand. The ten-day-long international immersion programme, attended by students from the Integrated MBA and BCom (Hons) programme, offered them the opportunity to study at the renowned Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand.

The academic component of the programme took place at AIT's campus, where students engaged in rigorous and interactive sessions with globally acclaimed faculty. These sessions explored crucial themes such as digital disruption, business model innovation, and the integration of AI into strategic decision-making. Students were encouraged to think critically about how businesses must evolve in response to rapid technological change. Workshops and case discussions fostered an applied understanding of concepts, while collaborative group activities helped deepen peer learning across diverse backgrounds.

The industry visit to Ichitan Group Public Company Limited, one of Thailand's most innovative beverage manufacturing companies, was central to the immersion programme. Known for its smart manufacturing techniques and data-driven marketing strategies, Ichitan offered students a unique glimpse into how modern businesses use automation and technology to remain agile in a competitive market. The visit also shed light on sustainable practices in manufacturing and packaging, leaving students with valuable insights into how innovation is aligned with environmental responsibility.

The programme, which also extended to cultural immersion, was equally impactful, with students exploring Thailand's vibrant cultural landscape through guided visits to Bangkok and the historic city of Ayutthaya. From tasting traditional Thai cuisine, visiting bustling street markets, learning basic Thai phrases, and interacting with local communities, students engaged in a rich cultural exchange. Though enjoyable, these activities also broadened their global perspectives and deepened their understanding of cultural nuances in international business contexts.

The international immersion at AIT, Thailand, offered students a rare opportunity to integrate academic learning, practical industry exposure, and intercultural understanding. Through this experience, they returned not just with enhanced knowledge but with new ways of thinking- better equipped to lead, innovate, and adapt in an increasingly complex world.