The thirteenth Executive MBA, a management training programme of the Faculty of Economics of Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), began on 14 November. It was a special opening day that provided participants with an opportunity to share and reflect. During the orientation session, students presented their stories using newspaper clippings, images, and photographs.

Some represented their lives as a tree, with deep roots in the past and branches reaching out towards new goals. Others chose a flower, a symbol of growth and renewal. For some, life is a pyramid, a work in continuous construction, where the EMBA represents both an achievement and a new beginning for personal change. This introductory moment laid the foundation for a journey that is both academic and personal, marked by positivity, determination, and the importance of having a vision.

A connection with the region and the Swiss spirit

EMBA13 embodies a strong connection to the region and the unique values of Switzerland. For local participants, the programme represents an opportunity to enhance the economic and cultural fabric of the territory. For those coming from abroad, Lugano serves as a hub for innovation and networking opportunities. The programme encourages a global perspective while still emphasising the significance of the local context.

A heterogeneous class

The EMBA13 class is made up of 14 professionals, each with an average of 13 years of work experience. Participants come from various fields, including energy, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and consulting. They share a common goal of gaining organisational skills and innovative tools to tackle the challenges of a changing global market. The diverse personal and professional backgrounds of the participants enhance classroom discussions, fostering a stimulating and collaborative learning environment.

A path for personal and professional growth

The inaugural day ended with an event organised by USI and the UBS Center for Economics in Society, an opportunity to explore the role of corporate culture, with illustrious guests such as Sergio P. Ermotti (CEO of UBS Group AG), Ernst Fehr (University of Zurich), Luigi Guiso (Einaudi Institute for Economics and Finance) and Luisa Lambertini, Rector of USI. In the following days, the new class had the opportunity to attend the Leadership course with the EMBA12, the previous edition, giving rise to opportunities for exchange and networking.

With a programme that includes a Study Tour in Boston (USA) and innovative courses, USI’s EMBA is not just a master’s programme but a path of transformation. An ethical approach, a focus on sustainability and responsible leadership guide every aspect of the Master’s programme. For participants, this represents a springboard to face future challenges with confidence and vision.