By Shawn Kelly
The Asian Institute of Technology has formalized a partnership with the Ivey Business School of Western University, Canada, to introduce the prestigious Ivey LEADER (Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, Development) Program to Thailand. This collaboration, cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding, will see AIT’s Entrepreneurship Center host the program in May 2025.
LEADER is a globally recognized, student-led initiative of Ivey Business School, designed to foster economic development by equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills to launch and grow ventures. The program features a combination of case studies, lectures, workshops, coaching, and mentorship, providing participants with practical insights into business administration and entrepreneurship.
The initiative seeks to enhance leadership development, promote international collaboration, and drive entrepreneurial growth by leveraging the strengths of both institutions. According to officials, the signing of the MOU in December 2024 represents a significant milestone in expanding educational opportunities for students and professionals across the region
Known for its success in nurturing entrepreneurial talent in emerging markets, the LEADER program will introduce its experiential, case-based teaching approach to Thai entrepreneurs and students from neighboring countries. The curriculum will be delivered by Ivey Business School students and alumni, who will lead workshops, lectures, and personalized coaching sessions, equipping participants with critical decision-making tools for business success.
The Embassy of Canada in Bangkok played a key role in facilitating this partnership. In October 2024, the embassy hosted a meeting to lay the groundwork for the collaboration, welcoming two student representatives from the Ivey LEADER program to Bangkok. The representatives engaged with AIT officials and members of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CanCham) to discuss the program’s implementation.
Christophe Rouleau, Second Secretary (Commercial), Vice-Consul, and Trade Commissioner, introduced Ivey Business School representatives Sophie Fiala (HBA 2025) and Matt Knebel (MBA 2025). Together, they reviewed the details of the two-week program scheduled to take place at the AIT Entrepreneurship Center. The meeting also included AIT’s Entrepreneurship Center Director, Prof. Dieter Trau, and CanCham board members Greg Beatty, Managing Director of BEATTYintel; Sunny Patel, Founder and CEO of Trends Digital; Michael B. Currie, CTO of Fling AI; and John Casella, CEO of Administration Outsourcing Co. Ltd.
Officials highlighted that the partnership not only strengthens educational ties between Thailand and Canada but also contributes to developing innovative leaders capable of addressing global challenges.
“Bringing the LEADER Program to AIT and to Thailand reflects our shared commitment to advancing economic growth and innovation through education,” said Prof. Trau.
Deputy Trade Commissioner Rouleau underscored the importance of Canada-Thailand collaboration, emphasizing the embassy’s dedication to fostering impactful educational exchanges.
“This partnership represents a significant step forward in educational cooperation between one of Canada’s leading business schools and AIT,” Rouleau remarked.
Shawn Kelly is Executive Director of the Office of International and Public Affairs, AIT
