Expanding Horizons: How a European Study Tour is Shaping Future Leaders from Pakistan
- Nabhan Karim
- international cooperation, study tour, travel
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In May 2024, I was approached by a company called StudenTravel who organize study tours, mainly in Europe to organize an European Study Tour for Institute of Business Management Students. As the Head of Marketing and Communications at the Institute of Business Management, I felt it was a great opportunity to provide our students with this experience to help them grow professionally and personally. As an avid traveller, I understand the importance of exploring diverse cultures, and know firsthand how traveling and meeting new people helps shape a person and grooms them to be a global citizen.
In August 2024, a group of students from Institute of Business Management, Pakistan embarked on a transformative 10-day journey across Europe, organized in partnership with StudenTravel. This experience took us through Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and Cologne, providing a blend of academic, cultural, and personal growth that profoundly impacted each student.
Starting in Frankfurt, students were introduced to the historic city and saw the new and old city centers. This also gave us an opportunity to connect with the team at International School of Management, a German University. Through our discussions, we initiated plans for student and faculty exchanges, setting the stage for future collaborations in research and academic development. Establishing these partnerships was a vital aspect of our journey, as they will help us create a pathway for our students to experience further academic and professional enrichment on an international scale.
From Frankfurt, we visited Chempark Leverkusen, one of Europe’s largest chemical industry hubs. Here, students gained insights into the chemical sector’s collaborative nature and saw the industrial park setup, experiencing the interplay between safety, innovation, and logistics in a highly organized environment.
In Dusseldorf, an alumni reunion we organized, bringing together graduates who are now studying and working in Germany. This event allowed current students to connect with alumni who have successfully transitioned to European life, providing firsthand perspectives on studying and working abroad, and giving our institution the opportunity to reconnect with our German-based alumni.
As part of our German journey, we traveled to Cologne, where students were struck by the magnificence of the Cologne Cathedral. The cathedral, with its rich history and stunning architecture, provided a tangible link to Europe’s cultural heritage, sparking reflections on history, faith, and human achievement.
Amsterdam, although a day trip, offered students a taste of progressive governance and social responsibility. Known for its inclusivity and sustainable practices, the city inspired students to think critically about societal values, environmental responsibility, and the importance of fostering inclusive communities. The city’s vibrant art scene and commitment to freedom encouraged them to consider different ways societies approach complex issues.
In Brussels, we were welcomed at the Pakistan Embassy, where students engaged with embassy staff and learned about the role of diplomacy and the efforts being made to support Pakistanis abroad. This experience was further enriched with a visit to the European Parliament, where students participated in a parliament simulation game, stepping into the roles of parliamentarians working to resolve a simulated crisis. Through this exercise, students experienced the complexities of governance, teamwork, and the importance of negotiation—skills crucial for future leaders.
Arriving in Paris, students were captivated by the post-Olympic city setup, getting a glimpse of how the city had transformed to host the world. Exploring the city’s iconic historic monuments, they soaked in the beauty and grandeur that make Paris legendary. They also enjoyed a bit of shopping, experiencing the fashion and elegance that the city is known for. The trip concluded with a magical day at Disneyland Paris, offering a joyful, unforgettable close to an intensive and enriching journey.
For many students, this was their first trip abroad, and it was remarkable to witness their growth as they engaged with new ideas and perspectives. They returned home with newfound confidence, a global perspective, and an eagerness to contribute meaningfully to a connected world. This trip was made possible by StudenTravel, whose support facilitated an incredible experience, and by the relationships we’re building with universities and alumni in Europe, creating a strong foundation for future collaboration.
More than just a travel experience, this journey was a formative chapter in these students’ lives, setting them on a path toward becoming resilient, globally aware individuals. By providing them with these opportunities, we are nurturing a generation ready to lead, bridge cultures, and bring fresh perspectives to the world. This trip was only the beginning, a first step in a lifelong journey of learning, exploration, and growth.
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