Student-based programs aimed at "putting knowledge to work"

Mar 18, 2004

Two University of Wollongong-based student programs aimed to provide fresh input, ideas and approaches for Illawarra businesses were launched this week.

The new "Univative Illawarra" program and the "Employment Experience Program" will be co-ordinated by the Careers Service at the University.

The Univative Illawarra program provides the opportunity for organisations to set a real business challenge/issue for students. It involves three teams of five students and each team is composed of students from various disciplines.

"They research and solve a business issue offsite over one month and then present their findings and recommendations," Workplace Learning Co-ordinator with the University of Wollongong's Careers Service, Ms Sue Rejske said.

She said businesses would receive fresh, innovative solutions underpinned by a variety of disciplines such as economics, marketing, law, IT and psychology.

The students themselves gain exposure to a work culture and environment, test their problem-solving skills and develop teamwork, interpersonal and presentation skills.

Ms Rejske described the program as an exciting new regional initiative that was being sponsored by Bluescope Steel, Illawarra Credit Union and the University of Wollongong. The winning team from each host organisation will compete in a final at the University of Wollongong.

Meanwhile, the Employment Experience Program (a program initiated in 2002 by UniCentre's Centre for Student Development) will provide organisations with the resources to respond to additional projects and challenges such as a marketing plan, an IT systems analysis, or the preparation of a major report focusing on economic analysis.

Organisations will be matched with a student who has the qualifications, skills and experiences that cater to the particular needs of a business.

Ms Rejske said this program would be happening throughout the year and most projects would see students working voluntarily at a business premises for up to three weeks full time or one day a week over six to 10 weeks or variations in between to suit employer and student.