Than Htun Zaw studied for his ABE Level 5 qualification while working as an Assistant Operations Manager at his family's mining business. He aims to secure a managerial role in the mining industry and potentially pursue an MBA to further his knowledge and professional opportunities. Read his full story below:
''My name is Than Htun Zaw, and I come from Mogok (The town famous for its gemstones, especially Ruby and Sapphire) it is located 200 kilometres north of Mandalay, Myanmar. I come from a family deeply rooted in the mining industry, with our family business operating several mines across the region. I grew up in a close-knit family that values education and personal growth. I am pursuing my undergraduate studies in ABE Level 5 at KBTC School of Business. Currently, I am working as an Assistant Operations Manager at my parent’s mining business, where I have been able to apply and enhance my skills in managing the day-to-day operations and managing the staff.
I chose to study with ABE because of its strong reputation for providing high-quality education in business management and its flexible learning options. The ABE curriculum is globally recognised and designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge which I believe are crucial for advancing my career in the competitive business environment.
I have studied my ABE qualification at the KBTC School of Business, located in Mandalay, Myanmar. The university is well-known for its knowledgeable teachers and robust learning materials, which aided my academic pursuits.
In Myanmar, ABE qualifications are highly valued by both the public and employers. They are seen as a symbol of professionalism and competency in organisational development. Many companies value the practical and strategic abilities that ABE graduates bring to the workplace, making them an advantage in the job market.
Upon completing my current ABE Level 5 qualification, I plan to seek a managerial position in the mining industry. I am particularly interested in roles that allow me to implement strategic business practices and drive organisational growth. Additionally, I also plan to continue my education to broaden my knowledge and improve my professional opportunities, such as by completing an MBA.
The greatest advantage of learning with ABE is its flexibility, allowing me to manage my studies with my career and personal commitments. Furthermore, the curriculum is comprehensive and practical, offering real-world business insights and abilities that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
I have acquired a wide range of abilities from ABE, such as excellent communication, financial planning, leadership, and strategic management. These qualities have been beneficial in my current position since they have improved my ability to make decisions, increase operational efficiency, and promote more effective team collaboration.
My top tips for successful study include creating a well-structured study plan and sticking to it. Time management is very important, especially if the learners are balancing studies with work. For ABE’s closed-book exams, it is crucial to understand the core concepts instead of rote memorisation, engage in regular self-assessment to identify and work on weak areas and utilise past exam papers to get familiar with the question patterns and time management. It's also critical to actively engage in conversations and ask teachers for assistance when necessary. Additionally, balancing education with relaxation and hobbies can contribute to general well-being.
My long-term career goal is to take on an even more significant leadership role in our family business, potentially as Chief Operating Officer. I aim to foster innovation and sustainability in the mining industry, ensuring that our company flourishes while simultaneously contributing positively to the community and environment.
Finally, I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all the tutors and the management team at KBTC and ABE, who worked hard to help me during my ABE journey.''