As part of its strategic commitment to enhancing graduate employability, Ajman University (AU) launched its flagship CXO Connect initiative—a platform designed to bridge the gap between higher education and industry. Through curated engagements with top executives, the initiative equips students with real-world insights, leadership perspectives, and the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market.
In a recent session titled “Leading with Creativity: How Executive Leadership Drives Innovation and Impact,” AU convened a distinguished panel of industry leaders: Mr. Sajith Ansar, Founder and CEO of Idea Spice; Mr. Jatin Kalra, Vice President of Apparel Group; and Mr. Christoph Koster, CEO of ruya. The session was moderated by Dr. Abeer Al Ghananeem, Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
The panelists shared insights on the role of creativity in executive leadership, the importance of long-term strategic thinking, and how today’s graduates can position themselves for sustained success. A recurring theme was the growing demand for soft skills, including empathy, adaptability, and communication—essential qualities that complement technical expertise in the modern workplace.
Reflecting on the strategic significance of the initiative, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, stated: “AU has launched the CXO Connect program to cultivate a robust ecosystem of industry partnerships. This initiative is designed to develop highly-skilled talent, promote industry-relevant research, and champion continuous learning. By doing so, AU aims to contribute to the UAE’s national vision of becoming a prominent leader in the global knowledge economy.”
Panelists also underscored the UAE’s growing role as a global innovation and entrepreneurship hub, highlighting the rise of homegrown ventures, fintech expansion, and the country’s long-term commitment to economic diversification.
Through initiatives like CXO Connect, Ajman University reinforces its position as a catalyst for career readiness and innovation—ensuring that its graduates are not only academically equipped, but also industry-aware, globally competitive, and future-focused.