The Department of Business Administration, Girijananda Chowdhury University (GCU), organized an international study tour in collaboration with HELP University, Malaysia, from March 10th to March 14th, 2025. A total of twenty-eight students and two faculty members, Dr. Sampurna Bhuyan and Mr. Faruk Ahmed, participated in the program. The visit featured academic workshops and cultural excursions, providing students with a holistic international learning experience.
Academic Sessions and Workshops: The academic sessions commenced with a workshop on “Global Engagement & Enriching Student Experience Programme,” featuring distinguished speakers from HELP University.
Dr. Sumathi Paramasivam, a Senior Lecturer in Business Management, delivered the first session, emphasizing cultural intelligence in global business. Through interactive activities, students engaged in discussions on cultural awareness, adaptability and effective communication in multinational environments.
The second session was conducted by Prof. Dr. Bernard Lew, who spoke on “Entrepreneurship and Innovation.” He encouraged students to explore business model frameworks, leading to insightful discussions on skill development, sustainability and financial viability.
On the following day, two impactful sessions took place. The first, on “Leadership and Team Management,” was conducted by Dr. Kishen Adani, who used real-world examples and case studies to illustrate leadership strategies. The second, led by Mr. Paneir Selvam, focused on “Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).” He highlighted the challenges faced by modern corporations in maintaining transparency and public trust while advocating for CSR as a necessity for long-term business success.
Dr. Sampurna Bhuyan proposed future research collaborations between GCU and HELP University. She highlighted potential research areas, including entrepreneurship, eco-tourism, financial literacy, and healthcare management in Northeast India. Additionally, a presentation on “GCU and its Initiatives for International Collaboration” was delivered to HELP University’s senior faculty members.
Cultural and Recreational Activities: Beyond academics, the tour included cultural and recreational experiences, allowing students to immerse themselves in Malaysian heritage and modern advancements.
Day 1: Exploring Kuala Lumpur’s Iconic Landmarks Students visited Merdeka Square, a historic site symbolizing Malaysia’s independence, followed by the Guan Di Temple, offering insights into the nation’s multicultural traditions. The day concluded with a visit to the Petronas Twin Towers, where students admired the architectural marvel and explored Suria KLCC.
Day 2: Nature, Adventure, and Urban Vibes The group explored Batu Caves, renowned for its Hindu shrines and limestone formations, followed by a trip to Genting Highlands, a high-altitude resort with scenic cable car rides. The evening was spent at Bukit Bintang, experiencing Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant shopping and entertainment district.
Day 3: Marine Life and Local Market Exploration Students visited Aquaria KLCC, an oceanarium showcasing diverse marine life. They also explored local marketplaces, engaging with vendors and experiencing Malaysian street food. The day concluded with an authentic Malaysian dinner, offering traditional dishes like satay and nasi lemak.
Day 4: Cultural and Culinary Experiences The final day focused on cultural immersion with visits to the Central Market and popular food streets, where students sampled local delicacies. A monorail journey provided an overview of Kuala Lumpur’s efficient public transport system, concluding the enriching tour experience.
The international study tour to HELP University, Malaysia, was a resounding success, blending academic learning with cultural exploration. It provided students with a global perspective, exposure to diverse business practices, and valuable networking opportunities. The tour strengthened ties between GCU and HELP University, paving the way for future academic collaborations and research initiatives.
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