You're hired! Young business hopefuls take part in University of Birmingham's ROCKET Challenge 2010
Last updated 7/6/2010 10:42:06 AM
ROCKET Business Challenge 2010
They would make Alan Sugar proud... would-be entrepreneurs from schools in the Midlands are taking part in a challenge to test their business acumen.
The ROCKET Challenge 2010 at the University of Birmingham Business School is encouraging dozens of Year 11 and 12 pupils to take part in a two-week business event.
"Calling it a rocket challenge is very apt," said Professor Isabelle Szmigin. "To be successful inbusiness you need a lot of energy and there is a desire to reach for the stars. We hope in this fun challenge we might encourage the business stars of the future."
Professor Szmigin added that she hoped the challenge would encourage pupils to think about setting up their own businesses or pursuing entrepreneurial careers. The schools taking part can field up to four teams of eight pupils. Each team has to work on a business problem, with a fortnight to devise a solution and prepare a presentation for a judging panel.
The event is organised by the Women's Enterprise Research Centre – a specialist hub launched by the University and the Women's Business Development Agency, but aims to enthuse teenagers of both sexes about business. Sally Arkley, Director of the Women's Business Development Agency said:""For the West Midlands to be successful we need to encourage enterprise at every level and giving young people the chance to takepart and learn about the world of business is essential."
Among the judging panel is Kallum Bell, a young entrepreneur from the region who set up his own business at just 14.
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