Wai Zin Phyo, a Mechatronic Engineering student at Asia Pacific University chose to study ABE qualifications to understand how business strategies intersect with engineering. Wai Zin is now working towards his Level 6 Diploma, aspiring to create innovative solutions that drive global progress. Read his full story below:
''I am Wai Zin Phyo, originally from Myanmar, and currently pursuing a degree in Mechatronic Engineering at Asia Pacific University (APU) in Malaysia. My parents own a business that involves importing automotive body components from China and delivering them nationwide. I have two younger sisters; one is pursuing ACCA, while the other is enrolled in IGCSE O Level.
During my second year at APU, I realised the importance of understanding how engineering and business intersect. I was inspired to pursue the ABE Level 5 Diploma to improve my understanding of business principles and to acquire a deeper understanding of the global economy. I wanted to learn more about how business plans and economic changes affect new engineering ideas and ABE offered the best opportunity for me to do so. One of the things I learned as an engineering student is that adding the technical part to my commercial spirit will open new doors for me and potentially allow me to be better prepared for a leadership role in the future. The curriculum that ABE offered was the right one for this because it is practical and relevant to life itself.
I studied the ABE level 5 course at MHR in Myanmar.
Both in Myanmar and Malaysia, ABE qualifications are widely recognised. What employers find valuable about ABE graduates is that they can think critically, solve complex problems and use business principles in lots of different places. The recognition of this has encouraged me to fully catch on to the opportunities presented by the ABE programme.
After graduating with my ABE Level 5 Diploma, I am now going to pursue my ABE Level 6 Diploma simultaneously with my degree in Mechatronic Engineering at APU.
The key lessons learned through ABE were by far a strong foundation in business management, including successful strategic thinking, finance management and organisational leadership. The knowledge that ABE gave me has helped a lot in my engineering studies at APU. I like the efficient syllabus that ABE teaches us. They are easy to understand, and key concepts are not time-consuming. Secondly, the period for the assignment’s submission is flexible so I don’t feel under the pressure to do things and write the assignments and OBE exams calmly.
Through my ABE studies, I have gained valuable skills such as critical thinking, strategic planning, and an understanding of economic systems. ABE has completely transformed how I view the relationship between business and engineering. It has helped me realise that while technical knowledge is crucial, understanding business is equally important for the success of any project or innovation. From managing resources effectively to aligning engineering solutions with market needs, business strategies have a direct impact on how engineering contributes to society and drives progress.
My tip for a successful study is to regularly attend classes and use the study guide to learn.
In the long term, I aspire to work in industries that integrate engineering and business, particularly in roles where I can contribute to creating innovative and economically viable solutions. My ultimate goal is to combine my engineering expertise with business knowledge to develop technologies that address global challenges while making a positive impact on both industries and society.''