AI, Analytics, and Global Strategy: Highlights from AlmaU’s DBA Study Tour Program

At the end of June, NUCB Business School received a delegation from Almaty Management University (Kazakhstan) for a one-week executive study tour focused on Japan’s evolving business environment, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence and business analytics. The 30-member group—comprising doctoral and MBA students, alumni, and staff—brought deep academic and professional experience, particularly from AlmaU’s DBA program. Their visit reflects the growing demand for international engagement in emerging business technologies.

Intensive case-method class sessions led by our faculty explored cutting-edge insights from the latest research on these topics:

• Prof. Louie Wong, Associate Dean for Internationalization and one of our most cited researchers, delivered a full day on the strategic impact of AI across industries.
• Prof. Katsunobu Sasanuma introduced key concepts in business analytics and explored applications of Kaizen technologies at global companies such as Zara
• Prof. Kenji Yokoyama, Dean for External Relations, and Prof. Hoe Chin Goi provided context on Japanese innovation and management systems.

Company visits reinforced the program’s applied focus. At Alpen Group, participants gained insight into the operations and strategy of a major Japanese retailer with a strong domestic presence and overseas expansion ambitions. A visit to the Aichi Prefecture Fisheries Research Institute, facilitated by Epsilon Bioanalytics, offered a case study in public-private collaboration for sustainability, which was underscored in a presentation back on campus by Epsilon Bioanalytics Research Director Mr. Ekrem Ayna. The program concluded at the Osaka World Expo, where participants explored how countries around the world are shaping their visions for the future through innovation and global cooperation.

This program exemplifies our mission to deliver globally relevant, analytics-driven executive education. Delivered entirely in Russian through professional interpretation, the tour also demonstrated our commitment to accessible, high-impact learning. As Japan continues its digital transformation, we are proud to be at the forefront of preparing leaders for the age of AI and analytics.