The Singapore Management University (SMU) proudly presents its pioneering initiatives, the SMU Industry Project-Based Experiential Learning (SMU INDEX) and Overseas Project Experience (OPE), for the "Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year" award. These innovative programs seamlessly integrate academic learning with real-world industry challenges, providing students with practical skills and global exposure essential for modern careers. SMU INDEX and OPE are designed to align with current and future industry needs through rigorous industry consultations, labor market research, and continuous feedback from alumni and employers. This ensures that the skills students acquire are relevant and responsive to the evolving demands of the job market. The programs employ cutting-edge teaching methods, including project-based learning, advanced technology Gen AI, and international exposure through OPE. These approaches immerse students in real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. The integration of global perspectives enhances students' cross-cultural understanding and prepares them for international careers. Robust partnerships with over 90 organizations across 16 countries provide students with hands-on experiences, mentorship from industry professionals, and valuable networking opportunities. This direct engagement with industry experts enriches the learning experience and ensures students are well-prepared for professional growth. The impact on employability and career success is significant. Employers consistently praise the preparedness and skills of SMU graduates, and many students attribute their career success to the practical experience and global exposure gained through these programs. By fostering practical skills, global awareness, and professional readiness, SMU INDEX and OPE exemplify excellence in skills and employability enhancement.
Finalist
Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year Award
Global Industry Integration: Industry Project-Based Experiential Learning Overseas
Finalist of the Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year Award
Singapore Management University - Singapore
"Bridging Academia and Industry Across Asia and Beyond"
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Summary
Key People
Venky SHANKARARAMAN
Vice Provost (Education)
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Kevin KOH
Head (SMU-X)
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Yuanto KUSNADI
Academic Director (SMU-X)
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Derek CHIANG
Senior Development Partner
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Yvonne KONG-HO
Deputy Head (SMU-X)
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
John TAY
Development Partner
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Joyce TAY
Development Partner
Office of the Provost,
Singapore Management University
Acknowledgements
Venky SHANKARARAMAN, Vice Provost (Education), Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Yuanto KUSNADI, Academic Director (SMU-X), Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Kevin KOH, Head (SMU-X), Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Yvonne KONG-HO, Deputy Head (SMU-X), Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Derek Chiang, Senior Development Partner, Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
John Tay, Development Partner, Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Joyce Tay, Development Partner, Office of the Provost, Singapore Management University
Images
Final group photo with the United Nations OPE project sponsors
SMU OPE students delivering their final presentation pitch to project sponsors
SMU OPE students discussing work and life abroad with international practitioners
SMU OPE students immersing in the local culture and experiences abroad
SMU OPE students visiting the project sponsor's warehouse and company
IMPACT STORY
Impacting lifes
Osotspa Co. Ltd., a leading Thai beverage producer, was grappling with inefficiencies in their sales operations due to reliance on delayed monthly data. To address this challenge, they partnered with SMU-X Overseas (OPE) to optimize their sales execution through advanced data analytics.
SMU students were tasked with creating tools and dashboards to improve sales monitoring, optimize cash van routes, and enhance store segmentation. This project offered a practical application of data analytics and machine learning, allowing students to tackle real-world business challenges head-on.
Working closely with Osotspa’s sales data and their Analytics Product Owner, the students developed a suite of dashboard solutions. These tools were designed to analyze sales performance, identify opportunities for up-selling and cross-selling, design efficient sales routes, and maintain customer relationships through social media insights.
The impact was significant: Osotspa gained actionable insights that refined their sales strategies and boosted operational efficiency. The students' work led to valuable recommendations that transformed Osotspa’s sales processes. Moreover, the project equipped students with crucial problem-solving and data analytics skills, directly enhancing their employability.
Feedback from Osotspa and mentors highlighted the students’ dedication, creativity, and professionalism. The collaboration demonstrated how innovative, data-driven solutions can drive business improvements and underscored the value of real-world experience in education.
This project stands as a testament to the effectiveness of hands-on learning in bridging the gap between academia and industry, making SMU students highly employable and industry-ready.
LEARNINGS
Lessons learned
The depth of engagement and learning that students achieve through real-world projects was beyond initial expectations. When students work on actual industry problems, their motivation and commitment to learning increase significantly. This hands-on experience not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also hones practical skills that are immediately applicable in their careers. Coordinating schedules and expectations between students, faculty, and industry partners can be complex. Clear communication and flexibility are crucial to managing these relationships effectively.
The international component of OPE provided students with profound personal and professional growth. Exposure to diverse cultures and business practices not only broadened their perspectives but also enhanced their adaptability and resilience. Navigating the logistical challenges of international projects, such as travel, time zone differences, and cultural nuances, required meticulous planning and strong support systems.
The use of advanced technologies like Gen AI created immersive learning environments that significantly enhanced student engagement and understanding. These tools provided unique opportunities for students to experiment and learn in a risk-free setting. Ensuring that both students and faculty are adequately trained to use these technologies effectively was a greater challenge than anticipated. Continuous training and technical support are essential to fully leverage these tools.
The mentorship and networking opportunities provided by industry partners were invaluable. Students gained insights and guidance that textbooks and classroom settings could not provide. Establishing and maintaining these partnerships requires ongoing effort and relationship management. Regular communication, mutual respect, and clearly defined goals are key to sustaining these collaborations.
FUTURE PLANS
What's coming?
Our vision is to position SMU as a global leader in experiential learning, continuously adapting to the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
Global Expansion
We plan to extend our reach beyond Asia, forging new partnerships with universities, businesses, and non-profits in regions such as Europe and North America. This expansion will provide our students with diverse international exposure, equipping them with a global mindset and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of a globalized economy.
Academic Research
Embarking on research related to SMU INDEX and OPE is a priority. We aim to investigate the impact of experiential learning on student outcomes, employability, and career success. By publishing our findings in academic journals and presenting them at international conferences, we hope to contribute valuable insights to the field of higher education. This research will also inform the continuous improvement of our programs, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of educational innovation.
Enhancing Student Mobility
We will seek funding to facilitate student mobility (inbound and outbound) with overseas institutions to also benefit their students as we aim to foster adaptability and resilience among all students.
Providing Consultancy
Recognizing our success, we plan to offer consultancy services to other educational institutions seeking to implement similar programs. Sharing our expertise in project-based learning, industry collaboration, and global engagement, we can help shape the future of education worldwide, promoting experiential learning as a key driver of student success.
