Leading With Phronesis - Practical Wisdom

EMBA International Study Trip, 27.04. - 29.04.2026, Greece

Discover Leadership at the Crossroads of History and Innovation!

Jyväskylä has long been called the Athens of Finland – a city where education and learning thrive. In spring 2026, this tradition meets the original Athens, cradle of philosophy and wisdom. Today, Athens is not only a symbol of ancient heritage but also a dynamic hub for business, innovation, and international dialogue. Our theme, Leading with Phronesis – Practical Wisdom, builds a bridge from timeless insights to the realities of modern leadership. By connecting history, culture, and contemporary business life, the EMBA International Study Trip 2026 in Greece invites participants to reflect on wisdom in action – in leadership, organizations, and society.

Programme overview

Phronesis, practical wisdom, is Aristotle’s idea of knowing not just what is possible, but what is right and appropriate in each situation. It’s about making good judgments in complex human and organizational contexts – balancing competing priorities, acting ethically, and making decisions that serve both people and the organization.

Leading with Phronesis - Practical Wisdom in Athens immerses participants in the practice of phronesis through interactive workshops and lectures, hands-on exercises, and immersive experiences. The programme blends ancient philosophy with contemporary challenges, exploring reflective leadership, ethical decision-making, and the role of practical wisdom in navigating complexity. Participants will reflect on their personal leadership values through a self-assessment using the IVI© Model, gaining deeper insight into how inner clarity and purpose influence wise action. They will also explore the intersection between human wisdom and artificial intelligence – examining how technology can support, rather than replace, the leader’s ethical judgment and capacity for discernment.

Throughout the study trip, participants will engage with Greece’s rich culture and innovation, from interactive exhibitions on classical thought to sustainable gastronomy and wine management, connecting philosophical insights with real-world leadership practice. During the study trip the participants will experience a unique journey that combines intellectual reflection, ethical leadership, and practical skills – discovering how ancient wisdom can guide effective, responsible, and inspiring leadership today.

Academic partner: Alba Graduate Business School

Alba Graduate Business School is one of the leading business schools in Greece, known for its strong industry connections and international outlook. As part of The American College of Greece, Alba combines academic excellence with a dynamic approach to business and leadership education, and its MBA programs hold the prestigious AMBA accreditation – making it an inspiring host for the study trip to Athens.

Trip Schedule

Week 18, 2026. The programme starts on Monday morning 27.4. and ends on Wednesday evening 29.4.2026. 

Investment to management development

The price for the programme is 2 300 euros + VAT 25,5%. The programme fee includes teaching and teaching material, not the travel- and accommodation costs (appr. 1 500 euros). Please note that the price of the programme may vary depending on the destination country.

Each participant takes care of their own flight and hotel reservations. If the participation is cancelled less than 2 weeks before the trip, 500 euros will be charged as a cancellation fee.

The programme is 3 study points (ECTS) of AMBA (Association of MBAs), AACSB and BGA-accredited University of Jyväskylä Executive MBA studies. You can also complete the programme as an independent module. The working language is English.

EMBA International Study Trip is optional and elective study module, and it´s also open to participate for Executive MBA alumni members. All participants completing the module will receive EMBA study module certificate (3 ECTS) by University of Jyväskylä.

If you need more information, please contact:

Ari Manninen, Director
ari.manninen(at)jyu.fi
m. +358 40 586 8887

Sanna Kouvalainen, Programme Coordinator
sanna.m.kouvalainen(at)jyu.fi
m. +358 40 805 3757