Enhancing Student Development Through Industry Competitions at Dublin Business School
Participating in industry-focused competitions provides students with invaluable practical experience that complements academic learning. Dublin Business School (DBS) actively encourages opportunities like the recent Ireland National Strategy Competition, empowering students to develop strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills essential for future leadership roles.
Discover how DBS connects students with real-world industry challenges.
DBS Students Showcase Strategic Acumen at Ireland’s National Strategy Competition
The 2025 National Strategy Competition, hosted by the MBA Association of Ireland and held at KPMG Ireland’s advanced PlatformX headquarters in Dublin, brought together top business students from across the country. While DBS students didn’t secure the top trophy this year, their performance highlighted their dedication, strategic insight, and collaborative spirit. Participants included Anuja Ugale, Manisha Tapas Bhasker, Erika Cristina Perez Sanchez, Benedict Tokpa Danuwali, and Noellen Bridget Britto, who all demonstrated their ability to tackle complex business issues under pressure.
Why Industry Competitions Are Critical for MBA and Business Student Growth
Events like the National Strategy Competition serve as practical proving grounds for students, bridging academic concepts with real-world application. These competitions foster essential skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and effective communication—traits that employers value highly in today’s competitive job market.
Moreover, such activities promote soft skills development, including adaptability, resilience, and teamwork, which are often decisive factors in career progression. Participation in these events exposes students to contemporary industry challenges, encouraging innovative ideas and strategic approaches that they can carry into their careers.
Network and Career Opportunities
Beyond skill development, strategic competitions like this provide an excellent platform for networking. Students gain direct access to industry leaders, potential employers, and peers from other institutions, fostering connections that can lead to internships and employment opportunities. The involvement of prominent organizations, such as KPMG Ireland, enriches the experience and offers insights into industry expectations and trends.
Preparation and Learning from the 2025 Ireland National Strategy Competition
Preparation is key to success in such competitions. Under the guidance of the MBA Program Lead, Ray Whelan, DBS students engaged in rigorous training focusing on strategic analysis, team coordination, and problem-solving. The event was an educational journey, offering firsthand experience in managing complex business cases, decision-making under time constraints, and presenting strategies convincingly.
This exposure not only hones technical skills but also builds confidence and resilience—traits that underpin long-term career success. The feedback from students and faculty underscores how these competitions complement classroom learning, providing practical insights that shape well-rounded future business leaders.
Student Development and the Role of Industry Events in Business Education
Industry competitions are integral to holistic student development. They challenge students to think beyond textbooks, applying theoretical knowledge to scenarios that mirror real business environments. Such engagement cultivates critical skills in leadership, teamwork, and strategic thinking—attributes central to effective management.
Furthermore, these experiences inspire confidence, foster a professional mindset, and help students understand industry dynamics, preparing them for the transition from academic environments to competitive workplaces.
Get Involved with Dublin Business School’s Future Competitions
Are you a current DBS student interested in participating in upcoming industry competitions? Visiting the Student Services Office or our dedicated Student Services portal is a great first step. Participating in such events not only enhances your skills but can also open doors to future career opportunities.
At DBS, we continuously seek to provide students with platforms that challenge and inspire. Stay engaged, prepare diligently, and look forward to representing DBS at future national and international business competitions.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ireland National Strategy Competition exemplifies the value of experiential learning in business education. Dublin Business School’s active encouragement and preparation of students for such prestigious events demonstrate our commitment to fostering industry-ready graduates. While this year’s team did not take home the trophy, their strategic mindset and teamwork highlight their potential. We look forward to future successes and invite all students to partake in these enriching experiences that prepare them for impactful careers in the business world.
If you’re considering expanding your practical experience and connecting with industry leaders, explore our MBA programs and student development opportunities. Submit your application today and take the next step toward your career ambitions.
