Visit by Ms.Makiko Sugiyama, Managing Director of Nikkei Business Lab Asia Ltd.

On August 1, 2026, Makiko Sugiyama, Managing Director of Nikkei Business Lab Asia Ltd., visited Aoyama Business School (ABS) during her stay in Japan and met with Dean Taka Hosoda and Professor David Nichols.

Guided by the principle that "there is nothing so practical as a good theory," Thailand-based Nikkei Business Lab Asia seeks to bring the realities and dynamics of Asian business to business schools around the world. ABS strongly shares this commitment, which provided the impetus for the meeting.

During the meeting, the participants discussed the future potential of "Nikkei BizRuptors," Nikkei Business Lab Asia Ltd.’s case study platform. ABS also shared its vision and strategic direction in connection with a new initiative involving the Financial Times (FT).

The discussion focused on the following areas:

• ・The distinctive operations of Japanese companies: Ideas for developing case studies that highlight the strengths and unique characteristics of Japanese companies and making them available to business school students around the world.
• ・Integrating theory and practice: Ways to incorporate reliable, data-driven insights into the realities of Asian business in the classroom and help students develop practical, professionally relevant skills.
• ・Enhancing the platform: A shared commitment to identifying challenges faced by existing case study platforms and co-creating a more accessible and effective learning environment.

By connecting university education with the business community and helping to develop the next generation of leaders, ABS and Nikkei Business Lab Asia Ltd. look forward to further strengthening their relationship and enhancing ABS’s presence in Southeast Asia.