MBA Programs in Lahore Pakistan: A study through the Eyes of Graduates and Employers

Abstract

This study critically reviews MBA programs offered by public and private universities in Lahore, Pakistan, through the eyes of MBA graduates and employers with the aim of assessing student satisfaction and possible gaps between student expertise and knowledge on the one hand, and employer expectations on the other. This is the first serious evaluative study of current MBA programs in Pakistan. Rapid recent change in the economic and social environment of Pakistan coupled with major expansion in MBA courses point to weaknesses and limitations in current MBA programs. What is required is an in-depth evaluation of MBA programs and their outputs, concentrating particularly on documenting: 1) employer expectations from the business schools and their views towards MBA programs, 2) the knowledge acquired by MBA students and their particular skills to meet employer demands, 3) possible gaps between employer expectations from MBA programs and the actual skills and knowledge developed by business schools, 4) views of employers and business graduates towards MBA programs in order to help identify any possible gaps, and 5) strategies for reform of business school curricula and teaching methods. Outcomes of such studies may provide information and recommendations to enable faculty and university leaders to develop MBA programs that are better tailored and more successfully business-oriented in order to meet more effectively employer expectations and at the same time cater for the career development needs of business graduates. This particular study sought to link theory about learning and training with practice and assessed the relevance, appropriateness, versatility and usefulness of MBA degree programs from the perspective of graduates. On the employer's side, it focused on preparedness, potential readiness, creativity and minimal ability to work alone and in-group situations.