upGrad, an integrated skilling and lifelong learning platform based in Asia, recently concluded a five-day program in Singapore for participants enrolled in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Emerging Technologies with Generative AI from Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco. Now in its second edition, the program brought together over 60 professionals from various countries, including Singapore, India, Canada, the USA, the Philippines, Hong Kong, the UK, South Africa, and across EMEA. Participants, with 10 to 40 years of professional experience, included C-suite executives and senior managers, all seeking to advance into strategic leadership roles or enhance their expertise.
Under the theme 'Connect, Create, Collaborate,' learners presented their final dissertation topics, fostering peer-to-peer exchanges. The program also featured exclusive faculty-led sessions and networking opportunities.
The upGrad-powered DBA program is designed to equip senior professionals with advanced leadership frameworks, research-driven decision-making tools, and cross-industry insights, enabling them to drive strategic transformations in AI and automation-led business landscapes.
Prof. Jay Gonzalez, Founding Dean, GGU Worldwide, says: "The partnership between Golden Gate University and upGrad brought together an exceptional group of professionals from four continents, each contributing pioneering research and disruptive business strategies. As AI continues to reshape our world, this program highlights not only its vast potential but also the importance of understanding its complexities and challenges".
As AI adoption in the Asia-Pacific region is set to accelerate over the next five years, the demand for AI-skilled talent continues to outpace supply. Industry reports reveal that 75% of employers are still facing challenges in finding qualified professionals.
Myleeta AgaWilliams, CEO, Consumer Business—International, upGrad, says: "Leadership transformation is now a global priority. As AI redefines business landscapes, programs like our DBA are essential for building a future-ready talent pipeline. While Gen Z may be digital natives, it's equally critical to upskill senior leaders, enabling them to navigate and lead in this evolving era. The diversity of professionals in this cohort highlights both the existing leadership gap and the growing demand for lifelong learning beyond traditional timelines".
