ESG in Practice: University of Economics Students Gained Valuable Experience Through Cooperation with the Business Leaders Forum

ESG in Practice: Students of the University of Economics Gained Valuable Experience Through Cooperation with the Business Leaders Forum

In September 2024, a memorandum of cooperation in the field of corporate sustainability was signed between the Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE) and the national platform Business Leaders Forum (BLF). The memorandum was signed by the Rector of VŠE and Mgr. Michaela Stachová, Director of BLF. The aim of the collaboration is to establish a long-term connection between the academic environment and real-world practice in the area of ESG and corporate sustainability.

A key element of the cooperation is also the facilitation of internships in companies that are members of BLF. The cooperation also includes the Lean In Talent development program for female students of VŠE, which took place during the past summer semester.

ESG Management Up Close: Student Experiences

One tangible result of the cooperation was an ESG manager shadowing program attended by several VŠE students. They had the opportunity to gain insight into the real workings of companies and acquire hands-on experience with the implementation of sustainable strategies.

“Being part of the ESG manager shadowing program was a very valuable experience for me, as it allowed me to understand how this agenda works in a real corporate environment,” said one of the students, who, among other things, visited the headquarters of Albert and observed the operation of their Zero Food Waste canteen.

Real Tasks, Real Impact

Another student shadowed experts from Škoda Auto and THK Rhythm Automotive, where he developed a functional trilingual table for tracking projects focused on reducing carbon emissions. “I was really pleased that the company has already started using the table and is happy with it,” he commented. As part of the program, he also worked on benchmarking sustainability approaches across the automotive industry.

Cross-Company Inspiration

The students visited, for example, the production facilities of companies such as LINET and Mattoni. They took part in excursions, discussions with company leadership and ESG specialists, and became acquainted with specific corporate social responsibility projects – such as engaging employees in volunteer activities or using recycled materials. They also discussed the involvement of top management in ESG matters. Additionally, they were interested in how ESG approaches differ across industries and how companies set their priorities.

A Valuable Experience for Future Careers

Through the program, students gained not only new knowledge but also inspiration for their future careers. Many appreciated the opportunity to participate in expert discussions and gain insight into company culture and the real challenges businesses face in the field of sustainability.

The collaboration between VŠE and the Business Leaders Forum represents an important step toward bridging academia and business practice, and toward preparing students for the growing significance of ESG in the world of business.