Latest news with #GIBS
Daily Maverick
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Educational innovation emboldening relevant leadership
In an environment that is demanding greater corporate responsibility, today's leaders must navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic business landscape to advance organisational sustainability. As such, business schools need to teach much more than traditional business theory. Today, businesses and students are demanding a more holistic business education. One that not only includes rigorous theoretical content but is supported by practical application of knowledge and a strategic focus on leadership development. The Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) has been at the forefront of South Africa's and Africa's business education for 25 years, delivering an innovative, relevant and future-focused offering. Educating in a modern world In recent years, business schools have been criticised for failing to remain relevant in a world where growing economic and geopolitical uncertainty and volatility are colliding with massive digital disruption. Criticisms have included claims that they are not keeping up with the demands of the modern business environment, still prioritise theory over practice, and that they are overly focused on financial metrics rather than the social impact of businesses. With so many challenges facing the world, business schools need to change the way they educate to ensure that they are producing leaders of value; leaders who are ethical, humane, and transformational. Professor Hayley Pearson, GIBS Executive Director: Academic Education, says, 'Business education is essential to help businesses and society navigate complex futures. Through the GIBS MBA, we are constantly innovating in order to deliver a relevant business degree that moulds Africa's business leaders through a holistic education that combines theory and practice, while building confidence, critical thinking, creativity and self-empowerment skills.' GIBS MBA – A leading global business qualification GIBS's holistic approach to education has seen the institution acknowledged as one of the world's leading business schools. Not only has the GIBS MBA been recognised as having the best reputation amongst employers, and their first choice for an MBA, according to South Africa's Financial Mail Top MBA Ranking; the United States (US)-based CEO Magazine, ranked GIBS 18 th in its Global Rankings for 2024, highlighting its status as a tier-one business school. In addition, the 2024 Corporate Knights Better World MBA Ranking saw GIBS ranked 25 th in the world for running one of the most sustainable MBA programmes. With sustainability a strategic imperative for GIBS, the business school is a United Nations Principles for Responsible Management (PRME) Champion. GIBS aligns with global educational standards and is proud to hold the prestigious 'Triple Crown' accreditation, an achievement earned by only a select group of business schools worldwide. This includes international accreditation from the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) through its Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Complementing these global affiliations, GIBS is also an affiliate of the Central and East European Management Development Association. Regionally, GIBS is accredited by the Association of African Business Schools and locally by the South African Council on Higher Education. The school is also an active member of the South African Business Schools Association and the Global Business School Network, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and continuous development within both African and international contexts. Globally relevant These global accreditations and associations mean that GIBS has positioned itself as a world-class MBA offering with many graduates having moved into leadership positions abroad. The partnerships also mean that GIBS is able to offer its cohorts a practical international module where students are immersed in a foreign business through a consulting project or immersive courses. This compulsory international module is a distinct feature of a GIBS MBA. Each year, the selection of these destinations is carefully considered, tailored to specific themes. In the past, students have had the option to visit countries from around the globe, including the United States, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Ireland, France, Hungary, Estonia, Morocco, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Mozambique, Dubai, India, Singapore, Vietnam and China. GIBS also offers an online option for those who want to manage their carbon footprint or where affordability may be an issue. This international focus extends to global leaders looking to bring their businesses to Africa, the world's next growth frontier. Not only does GIBS offer a truly Africa-centric education, Africa-specific international modules are always included in the MBA. Beyond that, however, the degree also provides an excellent networking opportunity as an essential element of any GIBS programme is teamwork, giving aspiring leaders from all aspects of business, local and abroad, a practical opportunity to work with a diverse group of African business cohorts. A bespoke Africa-focused MBA GIBS has further innovated in the business education space by allowing MBA students to choose a degree that is specifically tailored to their needs. In addition to the core MBA general management subjects, the business school offers over 90 electives that are clustered to give students a bespoke education that suits their personal career trajectory. These electives are grouped into key focus areas such as Building Personal Effectiveness, which includes critical thinking; Business in Context, which covers topics like corporate governance; as well as Consulting, Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership and Culture, with a focus on ethical leadership. Additional categories include Strategy and Innovation, Technology and Emerging Markets, which address issues such as digital disruption. In addition, the GIBS MBA also offers students specialised MBA programmes in Consulting, Entrepreneurship, and Manufacturing Studies in partnership with the Toyota Wessels Institute, which is a requirement for automotive executives. The most recent additions to the specialised MBA options are the Healthcare Management track, as well as Digital and Climate Leadership Focus, and Humane Leadership Focus. Students are also given the option to complete the degree in a format that suits their current career demands. GIBS offers a 16-month full-time option or a part-time option that can be completed in a range of time frames. The programme is further enhanced by innovations like micro-courses, online and blended learning, and fast-paced technological shifts like big data, artificial intelligence and augmented reality. Leadership is the golden thread for the GIBS MBA The golden thread of a GIBS MBA, however, is the development of future-fit leadership skills. The institute considers leadership from all angles of the business environment and has structured the MBA degree in such a way as to best equip leaders with the ability to envisage the future and be able to develop relevant strategies to execute those plans. All students have access to the GIBS Personal Applied Learning centre (PAL). PAL is an innovative way GIBS offers business education, by integrating coaching and facilitated processes into classroom learning. PAL facilitates the development of greater emotional intelligence, adaptability and the ability to lead diverse multi-cultural teams. It also helps them internalise what they are learning. Having access to the PAL coaches throughout their MBA journey has seen many alumni report that their confidence levels were boosted, their personal leadership styles were refined, and they developed greater self-awareness, enhanced strategic thinking and stronger leadership abilities. They were also better able to work within the high-pressure environment of an MBA course. The investment payoff An MBA is a significant investment, and the true value lies in how well students capitalise on the opportunities it offers throughout the journey. Due to the holistic nature of a GIBS MBA, students can look forward to growing on a number of fronts. Pearson notes, 'The investment in an MBA will guarantee a significant return. Students leave our courses with so much more confidence in themselves and their abilities, seeing them increase their chances for career success.' A 2024 GIBS survey of alumni revealed that GIBS alumni saw many benefits from achieving an MBA qualification. Nearly all surveyed individuals reported being promoted after completing their degree, with the bulk of alumni (over 40%) reported being promoted within the first year. In addition, nearly all MBA graduates saw an increase in their annual income. Many students also reported having the self-confidence to leave the corporate world and start their own business, with well over two-thirds of students starting up new businesses or consulting firms. They also noted an increase in international business travel to countries across the world, including the USA, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. When it came to a question of what made former students proud to be GIBS alumni, the fact that GIBS is a leading African business school ranked highest, followed by the high-quality Faculty, networking opportunities and the quality of the GIBS campus. A modern degree to meet new world demands An MBA is the ideal degree for people looking to take their career to the next level in South Africa or to become globally competitive. A GIBS MBA degree is designed to create future-fit leaders who can drive organisations in an increasingly complex world; organisations that are both impactful and relevant. GIBS's holistic approach embraces traditional MBA offerings with innovative approaches to facilitating business studies and leadership training. The GIBS MBA is so much more than a degree, it is a fast-track to business leadership success.
Biz Bahrain
26-06-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
CIBAFI Launches GIBS 2025 Report on AI and Data Analytics and the Digital Momentum Guide
The General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), the global umbrella of Islamic financial institutions, successfully held today a webinar titled 'AI and Data Analytics: Revolutionizing Islamic Banking Operations and Services,' marking the soft launch of the tenth edition of the Global Islamic Bankers' Survey (GIBS) 2025 Report. This edition of the GIBS Report explores the expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in transforming Islamic banking operations, service delivery, and risk management. It captures insights from 105 executives across 29 countries, providing valuable regional perspectives and industry benchmarks. The webinar opened with remarks from Dr. Abdelilah Belatik, Secretary General of CIBAFI, who stated: 'Marking the 10th anniversary of the GIBS initiative, this year's findings reflect an industry on the brink of a technological shift. While AI adoption is still early, its strategic value is increasingly recognized. CIBAFI's role is to support this transition through dialogue, research, and capacity building. We hope this milestone report will guide Islamic financial institutions in shaping effective, forward-looking AI strategies.' Following Dr. Belatik's remarks, Ms. Jenni Denniston, Director of Business Development at Ivey Business School, announced the upcoming Joint Executive Programme with CIBAFI, aimed at equipping executive managers with strategic leadership skills in AI and digital transformation within Islamic banking. Dr. Muhammad Bilal, Project Manager – Research & Regulatory Affairs, shared insights from the GIBS, such as the growing strategic importance of AI in Islamic banking. He noted that adoption remains limited due to high costs, lack of expertise, and concerns over cybersecurity and credit risks. The webinar also featured expert insights from distinguished speakers, including Mr. Peter Casey, Consultant; Dr. Ahmed Tahiri Jouti, Founder of NeuronAIze and Managing Partner at Green For South; and Mr. Yasser Rahrovani, Associate Professor, Information Systems, Ivey Business School, who shared practical perspectives on the evolving digital landscape in Islamic finance. The session was moderated by Mr. Rachid Ettaai, Business Development Manager, CIBAFI. CIBAFI extends its sincere appreciation to its Supporting Partner, DDCAP Group, for their valuable contribution to the successful launch of the GIBS 2025 Report and continued support in promoting innovation in the Islamic financial services industry. In conjunction with the webinar, CIBAFI also launched the Digital Momentum Guide: Impact on Islamic Banks and Guidelines for Adaptability, which offers practical insights and strategies for Islamic banks to remain agile, innovative, and Shariah-compliant in an evolving digital landscape. To download Digital Momentum: Impact on Islamic Banks and Guidelines for Adaptability, click here.
Daily Maverick
17-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Leading Media Through Disruption: New GIBS Programme Tackles AI, Sustainability and Market Challenges
The four-month Executive Programme in Media Leadership at GIBS Business School will equip senior African media and communication professionals with practical leadership, strategy, and innovation tools, covering areas like AI, sustainable business models, and competition law. Applications close July 4, 2025. Across Africa, independent journalism faces one of its most challenging eras. Newsrooms are shrinking. Audiences are fragmenting. Advertising markets are dominated by global tech giants. Misinformation spreads rapidly, eroding trust. The skills required to lead sustainable, resilient, and innovative media organisations today are vastly different from those of even five years ago. Against this backdrop, the Executive Programme in Media Leadership offered by the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), comes at a pivotal time. Designed to equip senior media and communication professionals across the continent with the leadership, strategy, and innovation tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex environment, the programme offers an exciting and intense learning opportunity to build new capabilities and networks. 'The future of Africa's media depends on strong leadership,' says Michael Markovitz, Director of the GIBS Media Leadership Think Tank and lead faculty for the programme. 'Yet too often, talented editors, executives and innovators are forced to lead in isolation, without the structured support, peer learning, and professional development that leaders in other industries take for granted.' A Leadership Programme Built for Africa's Media Challenges The four-month hybrid programme, running from July to October 2025, has been designed from the ground up to respond to the realities of African media markets — from small digital startups to legacy broadcasters, from public interest media to entrepreneurial ventures. Participants will gain practical skills in areas such as: AI in the newsroom and emerging technologies Sustainable business models and media financing Competition and communications law Negotiation strategy and board management Entrepreneurship in Africa Public interest journalism in an era of market failure Audience-centric innovation and product strategy Styli Charalambous, CEO and co-founder of Daily Maverick, who co-designed the GIBS programme with Markovitz describes the motivation for the course: 'We wanted something that responds to the real constraints and opportunities facing African media, whether you're in Nairobi, Lagos or Johannesburg. And, importantly, making it accessible in terms of costs and travel.' A World-Class, Cross-Disciplinary Faculty One of the programme's major attractions is its exceptional faculty, combining GIBS's top thinkers in leadership, strategy, entrepreneurship and innovation with globally respected media experts. Participants will learn from leading academics, practitioners, and innovators working at the forefront of fields such as media strategy, AI, public interest journalism, digital transformation, competition law, and media investment. GIBS's own faculty brings deep expertise in strategy, leadership, AI, entrepreneurship, finance, and change management — ensuring a cross-sectoral learning experience that bridges media with the wider business and innovation world. Urgency and Opportunity Applications have opened with a deadline of 4 July 2025. A limited number of scholarships are available to support participation by candidates from across the continent. The programme welcomes senior media and communications professionals, including editors, newsroom leaders, digital and product heads, media executives, policy-makers, financial and operational leaders with prior leadership experience. Participants will graduate with a powerful new network of peers and faculty across Africa's media and innovation ecosystem. Why Now? Africa's media cannot afford leadership deficits at a time of profound market disruption. New operating systems, frameworks and networks are necessary to respond to the challenges of this important sector. The programme will seek to address the disruption by: Digital platforms and AI are transforming content distribution and monetisation. Financial pressures, market consolidation, and platform dominance are threatening the sustainability of many outlets. New models of audience engagement, revenue generation, and collaboration are needed urgently — but require new skills and strategic thinking. The regulatory environment is shifting fast, with competition and media law playing a growing role in shaping market outcomes. 'There is no going back to the old ways of funding and managing media,' says Markovitz. 'Leaders need to be able to operate in what we call a state of permacrisis — constant change, complexity and challenge. That requires not just resilience, but fresh thinking.' Designed for Impact Unlike conventional academic courses, the Executive Programme in Media Leadership is intensely practical and applied. Participants will engage with case studies, peer learning and a Capstone project to translate insights into action. Sessions will include: Public interest journalism and market sustainability AI and data-driven strategy Strategic transformation and entrepreneurship Regulatory frameworks and competition law Leadership in permacrisis and resilience Inclusive leadership and cultural frameworks Audience-centric innovation and strategic communications Apply Now For African media leaders ready to take on the next phase of their journey and to help build a stronger, more sustainable, more innovative media ecosystem. This is a rare opportunity to invest in transformational leadership skills. Visit to learn more and submit your application. Applications close 4 July 2025. There are limited partial scholarships available so interested applicants should not delay. DM
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Technology in the Agriculture sector in Africa is critical: DHL Express and the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) release study on the future of African Agritech
Technological Advancement as a Catalyst: The impact of technology, especially AI and digital platforms, is shaping the future of agriculture on the continent. Emerging Business Models: The paper discusses the need for innovative models and management strategies in the industry. Case Studies of Success: The report features inspiring case studies from various African nations, showcasing innovative Agritech solutions DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) ( in collaboration with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) Centre for African Management and Markets (CAMM), has unveiled a white paper that highlights the trends shaping the agricultural landscape in Africa. This research emphasises the critical role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty across the continent. The African Agritech: The State of Play and Potential for Prosperity report reveals that improvements in agricultural productivity have a disproportionately positive effect on poverty alleviation in developing nations. A 1% increase in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP) correlates with a 1% decline in the population living in extreme poverty, highlighting agriculture's potential as a powerful tool for economic development. As Africa's population continues to grow, the agricultural sector stands at a crossroads, facing both challenges and unprecedented opportunities. The industry is vital for sustainable development and economic growth in Africa. Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of the continent's economy, accounting for approximately 15% of output, which is significantly higher than the global average of 5% [1]. For Africa to thrive, its agricultural sector must be optimally used to drive growth, especially given the rapid population increase projected for the region. The paper highlights the need for the industry to consider innovative models and management strategies. Innovation and technology are crucial for enhancing agricultural output and efficiency, which can lead to improved economic conditions across the continent. 'This paper highlights our commitment to supporting sustainable growth and innovation in the agricultural sector, particularly on the African continent. DHL's purpose revolves around connecting people and improving lives – as the world's largest logistics company, it is our responsibility to lead the way and guide the logistics industry into a sustainable future and ultimately ensure that we make a positive difference in the communities in which we operate. Through this paper, we hope to provide a glimpse of what lies ahead for the industry and demonstrate our commitment to sustainable economic growth,' said Hennie Heymans, DHL Express SSA CEO. 'We knew agritech was a powerful driver of prosperity, but we were impressed with what we unearthed during the research. Tech is being used in amazing ways to improve everything from soil management and crop spraying to transportation and fire detection,' said Ian Macleod, a member of the CAMM research team. DHL Agri-Express – a solution for Agri SMEs in SSA DHL Express SSA recently launched a new DHL Agri-Express solution, a time-definite express packaging solution developed to support Agricultural SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa with the shipping of avocados. This innovative and sustainable solution eliminates the need for active cold chain shipping by employing cutting-edge alternative technology. Specifically designed for small sample shipments of 6 to 50 avocados, this packaging solution enables customers to leverage the DHL Express network to send samples to buyers in international markets with ease and speed. The research paper can be downloaded here ( [1] Suri, T.,&Udry, C. (2022). Agricultural technology in Africa. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 36(1), 33-56. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of DHL Express. Contact: DHL Express SSA Media Relations Lerato Moeletsi-Banda ++27 71 352 3300 Follow us at: DHL Africa ( About DHL Group: DHL Group is the world's leading logistic company. The Group connects people and markets and is an enabler of global trade. It aspires to be the first choice for customers, employees, investors and green logistics worldwide. To this end, DHL Group is focusing on accelerating sustainable growth in its profitable core logistics businesses and Group growth initiatives. The Group contributes to the world through sustainable business practices, corporate citizenship, and environmental activities. By the year 2050, DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics. DHL Group is home to two strong brands: DHL offers a comprehensive range of parcel, express, freight transport, and supply chain management services as well as e-commerce logistics solutions. Deutsche Post is the largest postal service provider in Europe and the market leader in the German mail market. DHL Group employs approximately 602,000 people in over 220 countries and territories worldwide. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion Euros in 2024. The logistics company for the world.
Mail & Guardian
09-05-2025
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
CHIPO MUSHWANA: Spearheading financial inclusion and entrepreneurship
Innovative financial solutions for women: Chipo Mushwana In her role at Nedbank, Chipo Mushwana works actively to tackle the gender pay gap, access to funding and underrepresentation in leadership roles. As the executive of emerging innovation and payments at Nedbank, Chipo's journey working in the financial sector has given her a deep appreciation for the economic role that women play in South Africa. 'I've seen how financial inclusion and entrepreneurship can empower women and drive growth. Despite facing unique challenges, female entrepreneurs show incredible resilience and make significant contributions to our economy, fostering both development and social change,' she says. Graduating with an MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Chipo has more than ten years of experience in the fintech and digital commerce sector, and is passionate about leveraging technology and bold ideas to enhance financial inclusion in Africa. 'At Nedbank, we support women through innovative financial solutions and initiatives that promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship,' she says. 'By providing access to capital, mentorship, and resources, we aim to break down barriers and help women realise their full potential. 'Empowering women is not just a moral imperative; it's essential for sustainable development. When women thrive, so do families, communities, and economies. 'We must continue to advocate for policies and practices that support women's economic empowerment and create an inclusive financial ecosystem for all.' 'My journey in the financial sector has reinforced my belief in the critical role women play in driving economic growth and social progress in South Africa,' Chipo says. As the mother of two boys, Chipo is no stranger to the barriers that exist for women, especially mothers, in certain business and financial spaces. 'I founded Women in Payments Africa to create a professional and personal community to support women in dealing with these barriers,' she says proudly. 'By providing access to capital, mentorship, and resources, we help women overcome these obstacles and realise their full potential.' Chipo states, 'I see myself as a guardian of my team's well-being and growth. There was a time when a team member was facing personal difficulties that affected their work performance. Drawing from my experience with my own son, I provided support and understanding, helping them navigate their challenges while ensuring they felt valued and supported.' As a leader in her field, Chipo understands that she is an inspiration for the next generation of young women and girls who are watching her, and she takes this duty very seriously. 'I want to tell this next generation: embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don't be afraid to take risks,' she says. 'As you watch and learn from female leaders, know that you too can break barriers and create change. Your voice matters, and your contributions can shape a more inclusive and equitable world.'
