Our Next MBA Intakes – November & March!
Paragon International University is now accepting applications for our upcoming MBA intakes in November and March. We offer scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition fees. For more details, students can join our Telegram group here: https://t.me/+PXLvhItZJNU2ZWU1
By Chandara Samban
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Bun Sorikan, a second-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at Paragon International University, is also a Planning & Demand Specialist at Smart Axiata, one of Cambodia’s leading telecommunications companies. In his role, Sorikan coordinates between business and technical teams, ensuring seamless collaboration on various projects.
With a background in Computer Science, Sorikan’s ambition is to integrate his technical expertise with a solid foundation in business management. He believes an MBA is the essential bridge that connects technical skills to broader business opportunities, a necessity in Cambodia’s growing demand for professionals with a long-term vision in technology entrepreneurship.
Q: What motivated you to pursue an MBA degree?
Sorikan: There are several reasons. During my undergraduate studies in Computer Science, I realized that while I had technical skills, I lacked a deep understanding of business operations and strategy. That’s when I decided to pursue an MBA. My ultimate goal is to start a business in the IT sector, and I knew that to succeed, I needed to understand how businesses work from management to finance to strategic planning.
Q: How has the MBA program at ParagonU helped you in your current role at Smart Axiata?
Sorikan: The MBA has had a direct impact on my professional growth. Courses like Strategic Management have expanded my perspective, allowing me to analyze business environments and spot new opportunities more effectively. On the financial side, subjects such as Accounting and Finance, Financial Statement Analysis have equipped me with the skills to understand how organizations manage profitability and performance through systematic analysis.
Overall, the MBA program has deepened my understanding of business processes and organizational structures, which has made me more effective in facilitating projects and bridging gaps between business and technical teams at Smart Axiata.
Q: Among the courses you’ve taken, which one has been the most impactful for you?
Sorikan: All the courses are valuable, but Strategic Management stands out as my favorite. It provides a comprehensive view of how companies operate at different levels. This subject teaches us to evaluate an organization’s strengths and weaknesses, recognize market opportunities, and align company goals with strategic initiatives.
Strategic Management doesn’t just focus on theory; it helps us understand the real dynamics of a business, from internal processes to external market positioning. It’s a course that sharpens decision-making skills, which are crucial for future business leaders.
Q: With so many institutions offering MBA programs, why did you choose Paragon International University?
Sorikan: ParagonU’s international standards were a major factor in my decision. The university provides a curriculum that is aligned with global business practices, which is essential for students who want to be competitive in both local and international markets.
Additionally, ParagonU’s flexible learning options, such as evening and online classes, allow me to balance work and study effectively. The faculty comprises highly qualified professors who not only teach theory but also offer practical insights, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the business world.
Q: How do you see an MBA as a game-changer for Cambodia’s future workforce?
Sorikan: An MBA is becoming increasingly important for Cambodia’s next generation of professionals. Regardless of one’s academic background, understanding business is crucial. In a developing country like Cambodia, we need more entrepreneurs and business leaders who can create and scale businesses that drive economic growth.
Having technical skills is important, but being able to transform those skills into viable business ventures is what will differentiate future leaders. An MBA provides the knowledge and strategic thinking needed to do just that, whether it’s identifying market needs, managing operations, or expanding businesses regionally and globally.
Q: What advice would you give to students considering pursuing an MBA?
Sorikan: I always encourage young people to pursue higher education, especially a master’s degree if they have the opportunity. The job market is becoming more competitive every year, and having a graduate degree gives you an edge.
For those interested in business, an MBA is not just an academic qualification—it’s a powerful tool that helps you understand how to navigate the professional world, make informed decisions, and create opportunities. I often recommend ParagonU to my friends because it provides a well-rounded program that prepares students for real-world business challenges at an international level.