Special Lecture by Dr.Thomas Leaong: Introducing the Design Thinking

On June 24, 2025, the Kiriricom Institute of Technology (KIT) proudly welcomed Dr. Thomas Leaong from Genovasi University College for a special lecture and hands-on workshop focused on Design Thinking. As a leading advocate of innovation and human-centered problem-solving, Dr. Leaong shared invaluable insights that inspired and engaged a diverse audience of KIT faculty, management, and students. This session marked a significant step toward cultivating creative confidence and interdisciplinary collaboration within the KIT community. Through practical activities and thought-provoking discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of how Design Thinking can be applied not only in technological fields but also in addressing real-world challenges across various sectors.

About Dr. Thomas Leaong

Dr. Thomas Leong has been actively promoting education and training in the Asia Pacific Region, a profession he has loved since 1979. He founded the TL Management Centre for Higher Learning, Centre Continuing Studies, Graduate Centre for Management Studies, and Institute of Management & Business Studies, IUMV (International  University of Malaya-Wales), and is now active as MD of Genovasi University College and Principal of Genovasi Centre for Higher Learning, an HRDC-approved training provider. 

Key Takeaways from the Design Thinking Workshop with Dr. Thomas Leaong

During the Design Thinking Workshop at KIT on 24 June 2025, Dr. Thomas Leaong from Genovasi University College provided a comprehensive and engaging session on the fundamentals and real-world application of Design Thinking. He emphasized the importance of the Design Thinking Process—a human-centered approach to problem-solving that focuses on empathy, creativity, and iterative development. This method is widely applied across fields such as business, education, engineering, and innovation. Dr. Leaong guided participants through the five key stages: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test.

By the end of the workshop, students had acquired practical tools to turn creative ideas into actionable prototypes. They gained firsthand experience in solving problems collaboratively, appreciating the value of cross-functional teamwork and diverse perspectives. The session also nurtured vital skills in critical thinking, innovation, and user-centered design. Most importantly, students left with a clear understanding of how Design Thinking can extend beyond technology, becoming a powerful mindset for tackling real-world challenges in any professional or everyday context.

This workshop wasn't just about learning a method—it was about embracing a mindset of innovation and empathy. At KIT, we believe these are the foundations of impactful problem-solving in the modern world.