This is LBS, This is not Nigeria

“This is LBS. This is not Nigeria” Those were the words used to close off our data analytics session this weekend. The class related that statement and had about fifteen minutes to let it sink in. Fair to say, we the students were a bit stunned. Yet there was a sense of appreciation for what that statement could mean. Allow me to provide a possible explanation using three examples, a ‘structure flip’, a course on human nature, and learning in groups.

Since starting at Lagos Business School (LBS) we have been exposed to experiences that showcase a unique culture of leadership at the school. One of such examples is the fact that a few of our classes will be led by some of us students. This ‘structure flip’ was a surprise to the class as it originated from a simple response to class discussions. The remainder of the session went on to be used for the development of a timeline of learning activities which was co-developed with us students and our facilitator.

In addition to the coursework such as data analytics, LBS offers a unique leadership development perspective with a course called The Nature of Human Beings. This course provides a breakdown of its content in two parts. Part one is titled Being Human and part two is titled Becoming Human. The first part of this course discusses topics such as Human intelligence, the will, and affectivity. These topics elaborate on what it means to be a human being by focusing on core attributes of the person. The second part of this course discusses topics such as freedom, personhood, and fulfillment. These topics explore what it means to ‘maximize’ our humanity – taking into account what we know it means to be human. 

I believe this course on humanity is a strong inclusion to the LBS’ Master of Business Administration (MBA) curriculum because it provides a relevant point of view that could otherwise be lost or forgotten in other core courses such as data analytics, Corporate Financial Accounting, Analysis of Business Problems, and Management Communication. Being able to study humanity in addition to other coursework means that we as students will develop a well-rounded viewpoint on what it means to manage businesses. This viewpoint is one that would not allow us students (and future managers) to forget that ultimately we are dealing with human beings. 

One more element of the LBS MBA program is the group aspect of learning. It could be fair to say that without a group a student might not easily survive this program. The discussions within the group on analysing case studies and discussing ‘survival strategies’ has proven helpful to me and other students so far. For example, last week, my group discussed two cases for two courses (Analysis of Business problems and management communication). We spent over three hours after class intensely arguing various points of view of our cases. The discussion led to a group consensus and showed how critically we can break down a business problem through a systematic approach to problem solving. This approach is an eight step process that includes: 1.Understand the situation; 2. Identify and define the problem; 3. Define your objective(s); 4. Generate alternatives; 5. Identify criteria/ considerations/ limitations; 6. Analyze the alternatives; 7. Make a choice, take a decision; 8. Develop an action plan.

In conclusion, the question becomes are we still stunned by the opening statement? Maybe not as much. This is LBS. This is not Nigeria.