B-schools shape individuals who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful change

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS

- BY ABHINAV SINGH

What made you choose FMS for your MBA?

After completing my secondary education in Mauritius, I was awarded an Indian scholarship and joined the Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, to pursue my degree. During my spare time, I often visited the nearby Faculty of Management Studies library. It was there that I developed a fascination for the world of management, which inspired me to later enrol in an MBA programme there.

After your MBA, how was your path to presidency?

I returned to Mauritius in 1975 and joined the University of Mauritius as a lecturer in management. From 1997 to 2005, I served as the dean of the Faculty of Law and Management. As an academic, I developed a deep interest in the economic and social issues affecting the country, which gradually drew me towards politics. At that time, it was possible to be both an academic and actively engaged in public life. I saw it as an opportunity to apply my knowledge of management—essentially the art of mobilising resources—to solve problems and improve the quality of life of the people.

All this led me into active politics. I became a member of the National Assembly and went on to serve as a minister from 2005 to 2010: first as minister of education and human resource (2005-2008), and then as minister of industry, science, and research (2008-2010).

The combination of academia and politics profoundly shaped my character, personality and outlook, equipping me to serve as the leader of my country.