【GMBA】2026 Global Management Forum: A Four-Day Immersive Journey at Kyoto University
國際事務室暨GMBA辦公室
撰文者／GMBA辦公室
Introduction: Bridging Academic Excellence and Global Networking
From June 16 to 19, 2026, students from National Taiwan University’s (NTU) Global MBA (GMBA) program traveled to Kyoto University for the annual Global Management Forum (GMF). Spanning four intensive days, the program seamlessly integrated negotiation masterclasses, corporate visits, Japanese leadership studies, and deep cultural immersion—fostering enduring friendships and collaborative ties between NTU and Kyoto University scholars.
Day 1: Strategic Negotiation & Historical Business Simulation
The course commenced with an opening address by NTU GMBA Director Bryan, who encouraged students to embrace experiential learning across cultural boundaries and forge international networks. The academic core began with a foundational lecture on negotiation by Professor Baber, emphasizing long-term value creation and mutual interests over zero-sum outcomes.
Day 2: Leadership Paradigms and Precision Manufacturing
Day 2 shifted the focus to cross-cultural management. Kyoto University’s Professor Makino delivered an insightful lecture on Japanese business leadership, exploring how consensus-building, trust, and collective decision-making drive corporate longevity in Japan.
In the afternoon, students embarked on an industrial visit to Hilltop Inc. in Uji, renowned for its state-of-the-art precision manufacturing and customized component engineering. Beyond marveling at technical craftsmanship, students observed Hilltop’s employee-centric workspace design, followed by an engaging Q&A session on management philosophy and talent cultivation.
Day 3: Cultural Heritage, Business Models, and Fellowship
Cultural immersion took center stage on Day 3 with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the historic Kodokan, where students experienced the core principles of harmony and respect using cups associated with global dignitaries. Afterward, Professor Baber led an interactive Business Model Canvas workshop, bridging strategic theory with practical case applications. The afternoon concluded with a visit to Yoshida Shrine, where students prayed for academic and professional success.
The day culminated in a lively farewell dinner at an authentic Japanese izakaya, where NTU and Kyoto University students celebrated their shared journey, strengthening cross-border camaraderie over shared culinary traditions.
Day 4: History, Outdoor Academia, and Entrepreneurial Spirit
The final day blended heritage with modern entrepreneurship, starting with an excursion to the beautifully preserved Hikone Castle. In a delightful surprise, Professor Baber hosted an open-air lecture nestled within a serene bamboo forest, showcasing innovative pedagogical styling.
The itinerary concluded at a local craft beer brewery, founded by a Kyoto University MBA alumnus and former student of Professor Baber. The founder shared firsthand accounts of overcoming hurdles as a foreign entrepreneur in Japan, providing inspiring insights into market realities before the delegation returned to Kyoto to conclude the 2026 GMF.
Conclusion
The 2026 Global Management Forum successfully empowered students with practical competencies, international perspectives, and profound cultural appreciation. By merging rigorous academic discourse with real-world exposure, the program reaffirmed the vital role of global leadership and cross-cultural empathy in today’s interconnected business environment.
