The Landscape of Business Education: A Global Perspective on Rankings and Inclusion

September 26, 2024, 11:44 pm
National University of Singapore
National University of Singapore
CollegeEdTechOfficePagePersonalResearchServiceSocialSpaceUniversity
Location: Singapore
Employees: 5001-10000
Founded date: 1905
In the world of business education, rankings are the compass guiding students toward their future. The QS Global MBA and Business Master's Rankings for 2025 recently unveiled a landscape dominated by American institutions. Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) holds the crown for the fifth consecutive year, followed closely by Wharton and Harvard. This dominance paints a picture of excellence, but it also raises questions about accessibility and inclusivity in education.

The QS rankings cover 340 global MBA programs and various Business Master's disciplines, including Management, Finance, and Business Analytics. The methodology behind these rankings is complex, analyzing factors like employability, alumni outcomes, and thought leadership. The United States shines brightly, with eight of the top ten MBA programs hailing from its shores. Yet, while these institutions offer unparalleled opportunities, they also highlight a stark reality: not everyone can access this elite education.

Across the globe, the narrative shifts. In Asia, the National University of Singapore ranks 25th, showcasing its strengths in employability and alumni outcomes. Canada’s Rotman School of Management stands as the lone representative in the top 50, emphasizing diversity and thought leadership. Meanwhile, Europe boasts HEC Paris at 6th, a beacon of excellence in thought leadership and return on investment.

However, the spotlight on rankings often overshadows a crucial aspect of education: inclusion. The recent success of Singapore’s Paralympians at the Paris Games serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity. While medals shine brightly, the real victory lies in radical inclusion. Singapore has made strides in improving access for persons with disabilities, yet challenges remain.

The Enabling Masterplan, launched in 2007, has evolved to address healthcare, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. The latest iteration aims to create a more inclusive society by 2030. But experts argue that understanding disabilities goes beyond visible impairments. Invisible disabilities often remain overlooked, leaving many without the support they need.

The narrative surrounding disabilities often portrays individuals as passive recipients of care. This perception can be disempowering. Instead, society must shift its focus from fixing disabilities to recognizing the unique contributions individuals can make. This radical inclusion means viewing disability as part of the human experience, not a limitation.

In Singapore, the groundwork for inclusion is already laid. As a multicultural society, embracing persons with disabilities adds another layer of diversity. The challenge lies in translating this understanding into actionable policies. Employment opportunities for persons with disabilities must be tailored to their real-world experiences. The recent announcement to increase employment for this group by 2030 is a step in the right direction, but it requires a cultural shift.

Comparatively, countries like Canada and Switzerland boast higher employment rates for persons with disabilities. This disparity highlights the need for Singapore to rethink its approach. Inclusion should not be an afterthought; it must be woven into the fabric of society. Everyday encounters with individuals with disabilities should focus on embracing diversity, seeing challenges as opportunities for growth.

The spirit of community, or "kampung spirit," is vital in this journey. Each person, regardless of ability, contributes to the rich tapestry of society. Recognizing this interdependence fosters a culture of acceptance and compassion.

As we navigate the landscape of business education and societal inclusion, we must remember that rankings are just one piece of the puzzle. They guide students toward prestigious institutions, but they should not define the worth of an individual or their potential.

In the realm of business education, the focus should shift from mere rankings to fostering environments where diverse voices are heard and valued. The true measure of success lies not in the prestige of an institution but in its ability to cultivate leaders who champion inclusivity and drive positive change.

In conclusion, the QS Global MBA and Business Master's Rankings provide valuable insights into the state of business education. However, as we celebrate the achievements of top institutions, we must also advocate for a more inclusive approach to education and society. By embracing diversity and fostering radical inclusion, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or abilities. The journey toward a more inclusive world is ongoing, but with each step, we move closer to a society that values every individual’s contribution.