On December 22, 2024, in Ho Chi Minh City, PACE Institute of Management held its 2024 Graduation Ceremony, which also served as a celebration of lifelong learning. The event honored the achievements of over 1,000 business executives who successfully completed the Executive Training Programs of the 2024 academic year.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Giản Tư Trung, Founder of PACE Institute of Management, emphasized that in today's rapidly changing and unpredictable world, culture-based governance represents the future of management.
He noted that while the roles of rule-based management and goal-based management remain essential, effective leadership requires the ability to systematically and strategically build a corporate culture that creates a distinctive edge.
"In the era of artificial intelligence, human intelligence becomes even more indispensable," he remarked. "Culture is not merely a tool for governance; it is also the ultimate goal of governance and humanity. Rather than leading others, the future of leadership lies in empowering people to lead themselves."
Addressing the role of culture in contemporary business management, he stressed:
"Without a focus on culture, there is no governance—only control. Without culture, there is no leadership—only authority. Without culture, there are no entrepreneurs—only profiteers or merchants. Without culture, companies may grow large, but they will not grow great. Without culture, individuals may become wealthy, but they will not become dignified."
Dr. Giản Tư Trung also shared that Vietnam's business acumen has made significant strides over the past quarter-century. However, there remains a considerable gap compared to the global standard of business acumen, highlighting that much work lies ahead. Today's graduation ceremony marks not just an ending but the beginning of a new learning journey.
He emphasized that life encompasses two types of education: the education we receive from others and the education we create for ourselves. Of these, the self-created education is the most important and represents a lifelong journey of learning.
During the ceremony, Dr. Nguyễn Hồng Thắng, representing the school's faculty, extended congratulations and gratitude to the graduates of the 2024 cohort. He acknowledged the graduates for overcoming numerous challenges and continuously striving for self-improvement, for the growth of their businesses, and for contributing to a society that is increasingly better, more cultured, and more civilized.
Amid the solemn atmosphere, business executives and learners from PACE's leadership training programs proudly received their graduation certificates, marking the culmination of their tireless efforts and dedication to learning. Warm congratulations and hearty handshakes filled the room, creating an ambiance of warmth and energy. Joy was evident on every face, symbolizing a memorable milestone in each entrepreneur's journey of growth.
Representing over 1,000 leaders and business executives graduating from the 2024 cohort, Dr. Nguyễn Minh Hoà (President of Tra Vinh University), a graduate of PACE's CEO – Chief Executive Officer program, shared heartfelt and profound remarks during the ceremony:
"I deeply resonate with the path of authentic learning for business acumen and the liberating knowledge that PACE Management Institute has pursued over the past 25 years. Through my learning journey at PACE, I am confident that I chose the right place for personal growth and development. The lecturers at PACE are not only deeply dedicated to their learners but also experts who possess both academic depth and real-world experience—qualities that leaders truly need today."
This ceremony was not merely a graduation event but a meaningful space for connection, where business executives had the opportunity to meet and reunite with fellow peers. It served as a platform for the business community to share experiences, spread the valuable ethos of learning, and inspire the development of a new approach to management—“Management by Culture.” This approach, both humane and effective, represents the future of leadership in a world of constant change and in an era where individuals are becoming increasingly independent and free
With its mission of supporting the education of managers and leaders, PACE Management Academy proudly stands as a trusted partner to the business community for nearly 25 years. Guided by the philosophy of “Authentic Learning for Business Acumen,” PACE has empowered enterprises to not only steadfastly navigate challenges but also unlock new opportunities for themselves, their organizations, and the broader business landscape in this ever-evolving era.
