Bridging the Gap: Why South Asian Professionals are Choosing CityUHK for Their MBA
For many ambitious professionals in India and Nepal, the traditional "MBA dream" often pointed toward the US or the UK. However, as the global economic center of gravity shifts towards Asia, a new trend is emerging.
We sat down with two of our standout alumni—Akriti Mahato from Nepal and Swagato Jana from India—to discuss why they chose the CityUHK MBA to elevate their careers and how Hong Kong has become the ultimate strategic launchpad for South Asian talent.
1. The Strategic Pivot: Why Hong Kong?
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While Western credentials offer prestige, they often come at the cost of being detached from the world’s fastest-growing markets. For Akriti, who was already living in the city, staying in Hong Kong was a "leveraged choice" rather than a comfortable one.
"A Western MBA offers prestige at the cost of detachment. CityUHK let me deepen local equity while acquiring global credentials. Why exit the place I intend to lead?" — Akriti Mahato, MBA Class of 2024
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For Swagato, the decision was driven by CityUHK’s meteoric rise in global standings, including its recent achievement as #1 in Hong Kong and 37th globally in the QS 2026 International Trade Rankings. Beyond the rankings, he found a surprising "cultural synergy" between India and Hong Kong.
"Both cultures thrive on hustle and building strong relationships—whether over chai or dim sum," Swagato notes. "India’s diverse, fast-paced vibe mirrors Hong Kong’s, especially in how we value family ties and quick adaptability." — Swagato Jana, MBA Class of 2024
2. From Potential to Access: Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Coming from South Asia, professionals often possess the technical skills but lack the local "access" to high-level roles in East Asia.
Akriti highlights that the MBA acted as a bridge: "CityUHK addressed that gap in a very practical way. I met people who could see past my passport to my potential. The MBA didn't just open doors; it made sure I had people waiting on the other side with opportunities."
Similarly, Swagato used the CityUHK network to pivot into the competitive Fintech and AI sectors. "The alumni network hooked me up with mentors... landing me interviews that turned into my current role. It’s like having an inside track."
3. Real-Time ROI: The Proximity Advantage
One of the most unique aspects of the CityUHK MBA is the "ROI of Proximity." For our students, there is no lag between learning a framework and seeing it in action on the streets of Central or Kowloon.
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Immediate Application: Akriti recalls learning about capital restructuring in the morning and watching it play out in the afternoon news.
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The India-HK Corridor: Swagato now leverages Hong Kong’s role as a financial gateway for India’s booming economy—a trade relationship that has surged to $27.4 billion in 2026. He uses his role to channel investments back home and bridge deals for Indian startups.
4. Insider Advice for South Asian Aspirants
If you are currently on the fence about moving to Hong Kong or pursuing a local MBA, our alumni have some parting wisdom:
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Don't Step Away, Grow Upward: "You’ve already built a life here," Akriti advises local expats. "Stop proving yourself and start shaping the place you already call home."
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Embrace the Language: Swagato’s "pro-tip" for Indian professionals? "Start picking up Cantonese early. It opens doors socially and professionally, making Hong Kong feel like a second home faster than you think."
Ready to Lead the Asian Century?
The CityUHK MBA isn't just a degree; it’s an invitation to be at the center of the action. Whether you are looking to bridge the gap between India and global capital or deepen your roots in the Hong Kong market, your journey starts here.
