What Abbas says about the Master's in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Abbas from Saudi Arabia

What year did you graduate?

"I graduated in the summer of 2018."

What is your current job, and where is it located?

"I am a PhD student at Lund University in the Division of Engineering Logistics, LTH."

How did you find your job, and how long did it take?

"I explored the relationship between trust and Blockchain Technology within the Supply Chain Management Context. Having achieved my Master's in 2018, I took roughly a semester for logistical arrangements before beginning my PhD journey in March 2019. This transition was supported by a scholarship from my home country. The robust Master’s programme in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at LTH was a cornerstone, laying the foundation for this next phase of my academic pursuit."

Favourite thing about your job?

"I am grateful for my division’s supportive work environment and my supervisors' guidance in my current position. The foundational education I am receiving is invaluable. I am confident that it will enable me to improve my PhD work and prepare me for future roles as a researcher and lecturer."

How are you changing the industry or the world (in a large or small way)?

"I aim to improve the knowledge base regarding digitalisation in Supply Chain Management by focusing on disruptive technologies, particularly Blockchain and other Industry 4.0 technologies. I believe understanding such digitalisation through academic studies fosters scientific curiosity and enables the exploration of these technologies' tangible and intangible benefits within the industrial field."

What was especially useful about the programme that you use in your everyday work?

"During my time in the programme, I gained a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management through its fundamental courses. One of the most notable aspects was the interactive simulation game "The Fresh Connection". This game enabled us to experience the challenges of a simulated juice manufacturing company, providing us with hands-on insight into real-world operations. I also appreciated how most of the courses were highly related to digitalisation and sustainability, and there were even humanitarian logistics courses that enhanced our knowledge further in what I think are less-explored domains."

What was the focus of your thesis?

"My thesis focused on applying Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management and its influence on trust behaviours within the context. It goes under the broader umbrella of digitalisation in Supply Chain Management in the era of Industry 4.0 applications."

What do you miss most from your time at Lund University/The Faculty of Engineering? What were the highlights of your time at Lund?

"Being a PhD student at LTH, many experiences are still ongoing. However, I do miss my friends from the Master’s programme."

How international was your programme?

"The programme was incredibly diverse. I developed connections with peers from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, showcasing its global appeal."

Why do you think prospective students should choose the Supply Chain Management and Logistics programme?

"The field of study focusing on Supply Chain Management and Logistics is becoming increasingly important, especially in the face of global challenges like pandemics and wars. Moreover, it’s respected that this programme emphasises sustainability and incorporates humanitarian logistics. Additionally, as Industry 4.0 technologies continue to reshape current practices, it's crucial to understand them, which I think is well included in this programme."

Do you have any advice for prospective students coming to Lund?

"Prepare for colder weather; sometimes, there could be possible housing difficulties. Beyond that, Lund University is a prestigious institution that provides excellent support and balances a friendly environment and rigorous learning. In my opinion, your time here will undoubtedly be enjoyed, rewarding, and memorable."