25 February 2025

Shaping the future: creating shared value in the fourth industrial revolution

Emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and automation are reshaping the world at lightning speed. The Fourth Industrial Revolution isn’t just happening—it’s here, transforming economies, industries and societies at an unprecedented pace. So, the question isn’t if change is coming, but how you will navigate it?

At the University of Geneva, the second year of the Executive MBA includes the course Creating Shared Value in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It is one of the most popular courses on the EMBA as it arms students with the strategies, frameworks, and real-world insights to not just keep up, but to lead.
While other courses explore risks and the socioeconomic impacts of doing business in this new era, this one asks: What do we do next? How do we make informed decisions?
The course integrates discussions on disruptive technologies, ethical governance and organizational dilemmas, but ultimately shifts towards action-oriented strategies for leveraging opportunities responsibly. Rather than simply reacting to disruption, the course challenges students to strategically harness innovation. It’s where business acumen meets cutting-edge technology, equipping students with the mindset and tools to lead in a rapidly evolving world.

An immersive, action-packed learning experience
The innovative ethos of the course is reflected in the course structure. Forget passive lectures—this is hands-on, interactive, and designed for real-world impact. Here’s what sets it apart:

A dual-instructor model: Two professors co-teach the course at the same time, bringing diverse perspectives, dynamic debates and high-energy discussions that challenge thinking.

A day at the World Economic Forum (WEF): Step beyond the classroom. A full day takes place at the World Economic Forum, immersing students in global economic networks, policy discussions, and real-time problem-solving. Participants don’t just learn about change—they witness it firsthand.

Simulations and real-world case studies: Experience decision-making under pressure, test strategies in real-world scenarios, and walk away with actionable insights that can be applied immediately.

Collaboration over competition—The future of leadership: One of the key takeaways of this course is that business opportunities and innovations can no longer be pursued in isolation. The myth of the lone disruptor is over. Success now requires collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships.

The course will teach you how to:
– Evaluate the evolving definition of “value” in modern economies and societies
– Analyse complex systems and explore levers for change in such environments
– Develop applicable insights from analysing and simulating cross-sector partnerships

Don’t just adapt—shape the future. Find out more about how this course will equip you with the tools, insights, and networks to turn technology shifts into responsible, scalable opportunities.

If this sounds exactly like the skills you need, get in touch to discuss entry requirements for the Geneva EMBA at the University of Geneva.

Could the Geneva EMBA be right for you? Take the quiz.

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