In an era where business leadership extends beyond profits to social impact, SEGi University’s Graduate School of Business (GSB) hosted two powerful workshops on 18 February 2025, designed to equip MBA students from Karpagam Engineering College (affiliated with Anna University, India) with critical skills in sustainability, well-being, and persuasion. These sessions aimed to reshape traditional business thinking, fostering future leaders who can navigate complex challenges while driving meaningful change.
The first workshop, “Sustainable Development Goals and Human Well-Being: Empowering Humanity Through SDGs,” led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ratneswary Rasiah, challenged participants to rethink economic progress by placing human well-being at the heart of development. Studies show that global happiness and well-being contribute significantly to long-term economic growth, yet are often overlooked in policy-making. The session explored the economic and social costs of declining well-being, urging participants to integrate sustainability and inclusivity into business strategy.
The second workshop, “The Power of Persuasion: Leading and Deciding Under Pressure,” led by Datin Dr. Norhanim Dewa, provided students with real-world strategies to master influence and negotiation—crucial skills in high-stakes business environments. According to research by Dr. Robert Cialdini, effective persuasion can increase decision-making efficiency by over 60%, making it an essential tool for business professionals. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants learned how to navigate business challenges, influence stakeholders, and lead with confidence.
The sessions, attended by 123 MBA students and four academics, provided a transformational learning experience that extended beyond theory. Feedback from attendees highlighted the immediate relevance of these skills in the business world, reinforcing the impact of SEGi’s industry-focused curriculum.
The workshops also fostered cross-cultural learning, with PhD students leading campus tours for visiting participants. Studies indicate that students exposed to international business perspectives are 70% more likely to succeed in global markets, demonstrating the value of experiential learning and global networking.
As industries move towards sustainable, ethical, and persuasive leadership, these workshops underscore the importance of preparing future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. By integrating real-world application with academic excellence, SEGi remains committed to shaping forward-thinking professionals ready to create lasting impact.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
SDG4 Quality Education
SDG8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals
