Director's AGM message

Development and Networking

DAN is the "Mantra", I propose for the newly elected committee of PIM Alumni. It will do well to perform the twin tasks of Development and Networking which, in fact spells the scope of PIM’s Alumni Association, the PIMA.The MBA program is tough but rewarding – two full years of striking a delicate balance among work, study and life. At the end of the program, many believe erroneously that the learning process is, by and large, over and that, that which follows is merely incremental and additive. They fail to recognize the fact that a profession is for life, and the learning that underpins professional development is indeed, continuous. The first task, I wish to recommend to the new committee is to focus on CPD - continuous professional development, exclusively for the Alumni of our great institute. Continuous learning entails, new learning, and very often, unlearning of that which seemed axiomatic. Hence, regular programs on emergent topics, and issues of importance must be laid bare before a captive grouping of our progressive MBA’s.Development is one. Networking is another, that should draw the attention of our Alumni. We have over 2,500 managers who have completed postgraduate programs of study at PIM. Many of them are at the helm of their respective organizations – CEOs, heads of departments and business units. Bringing them together in one forum, is to create one that has both clout and credibility. The networking that ensues will help the individual members, while at the same time, project a vivid and positive image of PIM. Afterall, in the final analysis, an MBA program is as good as its Alumni. That is the acid test, and we can justifiably be proud of our crop!!Development and Networking need not necessarily be distinct and separate. When they come together in one event, as two inseparable facets, you will not only kill two birds with one stone, as it were, but also, synergize the two, with great effect.I wish you well in your developmental and networking endeavours in the year ahead.Dr. Uditha Liyanage Director, PIM