Oxford Business College (OBC) recently held its second national conference at the Heathrow Marriott in London, drawing over 150 staff members and academic guests from across the UK. The two-day event, themed “Empowering the Future,” featured a series of presentations and discussions aimed at shaping the next generation of business leaders. The conference also marked the college’s 40th anniversary, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility.
The conference began with a warm welcome from Salman Haq, Head of Marketing at OBC, who set the tone for the event by introducing the theme and outlining the agenda. Dr. Padmesh Gupta, Managing Director of OBC, took the stage to celebrate the college’s 40th anniversary. He reflected on the institution’s journey since its founding in 1985 and its continuous growth and evolution. Dr. Gupta emphasized the college’s dedication to providing high-quality education and its role in shaping future business leaders.
One of the key highlights of the conference was the announcement by Professor Sarwar Khawaja, Chairman of the Strategic Board, that 60% of the event’s profits would be allocated to philanthropic initiatives. These initiatives focus on early medical diagnostics research and related practical measures, underscoring OBC’s commitment to community welfare. This announcement was met with enthusiastic applause from the attendees, reflecting the college’s strong sense of social responsibility.
The session also included a strategic overview presented by Professor Fawad Inam, Executive Principal of OBC. He outlined the college’s vision for continued excellence in business education, emphasizing the importance of innovation and adaptability in today’s rapidly changing world. Professor Inam’s presentation was well-received, providing a clear roadmap for OBC’s future endeavors.
Empowering Future Leaders
The conference featured a special presentation by Ronel Lehmann, founder of Finito, who discussed the critical role of supporting graduates in securing employment. Lehmann highlighted the importance of preparing students for life beyond college, emphasizing the need for practical skills and real-world experience. His insights resonated with the audience, many of whom are involved in student support and career services.
In addition to Lehmann’s presentation, the conference included several academic sessions focusing on key aspects of OBC’s mission. One session, led by Professor Emmanuel Idowu and Stuart Coussins, Head of Compliance at OBC, emphasized the importance of regulation and academic standards. They discussed the role of UK regulatory bodies and OBC’s aspirations for greater academic autonomy as it approaches its 40th anniversary.
More Images from the event
Another session, led by Dr. Samuel Asante-Nnuro, Dean of the London campus, and Tim Mitchell, Head of HR at OBC, focused on high-quality course design and delivery. They highlighted OBC’s approach to maintaining excellence through rigorous course design, delivery, and staffing, ensuring top-tier education for its students. The session provided valuable insights into the college’s commitment to academic excellence.
Enhancing Student Engagement
Student support and success were also key themes at the conference. Asim Riaz, Chief Operating Officer of OBC, along with Noaman Islam, Head of Student Services, and Hamim Kariburyo, Head of Exams and Assessment, showcased OBC’s commitment to student welfare. They discussed the various resources available to students, including mental health support and comprehensive support services, aimed at enhancing student outcomes.
The importance of student engagement and empowerment was underscored by Diana Munoz, Student Events and Engagement Coordinator at OBC, and Sandra Naktiniene, National President of the OBC Student Council. They highlighted the significance of student voice and cultural diversity, ensuring inclusivity and engagement for all students. Their presentations emphasized the college’s dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
The conference concluded with a closing address by Professor Nick Petford, Chair of the Board of Governors. He thanked the attendees for their participation and reiterated OBC’s commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. The event was a resounding success, providing valuable insights and fostering a sense of community among the attendees.
