What makes higher education valuable beyond the qualification itself? For Dr. Joel Farnworth, Dean of Business and Management Studies at European International University-Paris (EIU-Paris), the answer lies in connecting academic learning with real-world professional competence.
Speaking at the EIU-Paris Class of 2026 Convocation Ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand, Dr. Farnworth reflected on the university’s academic development, growing international recognition, and commitment to preparing professionals for evolving workplace demands.
Connecting Education with Professional Practice
Drawing on decades of experience in higher education, leadership development, and organizational strategy, Dr. Farnworth emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. His professional background has shaped his belief that education should develop practical capabilities, not simply theoretical understanding.
This philosophy is reflected in EIU-Paris’s emphasis on faculty members with professional experience who can connect academic concepts with workplace realities.
As he stated:
โEIU-Paris is not in the business of producing graduates who know how to pass examinations. We are in the business of producing professionals who know how to perform.โ
EIU-Paris’s Growing International Recognition
EIU-Paris achieved several significant milestones in 2025, including ACBSP programmatic accreditation for its BBA, MBA, and DBA programs, a QS 5-Star rating, and recognition among the world’s top 50 universities by CEOWORLD Magazine.
Building on this progress, the university reached another milestone in 2026 through the QS Global MBA Rankings 2027, ranking #=92 in Europe and #301+ globally.
For Dr. Farnworth, the QS recognition holds particular significance. In 2019, he worked alongside fellow faculty members to develop EIU-Paris’s MBA modules under the guidance of Founder and Director General Prof. Dr. Edward Roy Krishnan. The ranking reflects an important stage in the university’s academic development.
New Economy Degrees and Competency-Based Learning
Another major achievement in 2026 was the launch of 56 New Economy Degrees powered by IKON SKILLSโข, expanding EIU-Paris’s approach to industry-relevant education.
These professional degree pathways incorporate stackable micro-credentials and competency-based assessments, requiring learners to demonstrate specific skills rather than rely solely on traditional examinations. Supported by an AI-powered learning platform informed by neuroscience, the initiative aims to connect academic qualifications with practical capabilities and evolving workforce needs.
Building on Academic Progress
For Dr. Farnworth, EIU-Paris’s achievements represent more than institutional recognition. Having contributed to the development of its MBA program in 2019, he sees the university’s growing international standing as an important milestone in its academic journey.
As EIU-Paris continues to develop new educational pathways, his central message remains relevant: the value of higher education ultimately lies in how effectively graduates apply their knowledge and skills in the professional world.
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