ESG reporting, greenwashing, and net-zero strategies are playing an increasingly decisive role in the global economy. At Schneider Electric’s Budapest headquarters, our students were able to gain a deeper understanding of their significance from a corporate perspective, while also getting a glimpse into the day-to-day operations of their host and reflecting on their own professional development.
On the first day of the English-language workshop, the teams from Schneider Electric’s sustainability business unit introduced themselves. They spoke to the students from the Faculty of Business and Economics about their objectives, tasks, challenges, and achievements that bring them satisfaction, thereby providing deeper insight into how a multinational company operates. The students described the speakers as well-prepared, approachable, and inspiring, and particularly appreciated that they presented the topics through their real-life experiences. Direct interaction with experts not only increased engagement but also helped participants explore potential career paths.
On the second day, students themselves had the opportunity to experience what it might feel like to be a “Schneider employee.” Working in groups of five, they developed solutions to real business problems such as risk management and the alignment of efficiency and sustainability considerations. Thanks to these interactive elements, students were able to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations, making the learning process both more enjoyable and more effective.
The structure of the course provided an opportunity for students to develop a comprehensive understanding of how different organizational units collaborate to achieve a common goal. This integrated perspective was further strengthened by the diversity of topics covered, including procurement, supply chain management, customer relations, and consulting activities. As a result, students experienced improvement in their analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and structured approaches.
Risk management emerged as one of the most defining elements: students came to understand how companies identify, analyze, and manage risks in a rapidly changing market environment. Closely related to this, trading and the functioning of the energy market also generated significant interest, as these topics helped deepen understanding of financial processes and strategic decision-making. The presentation of renewable energy procurement and long-term contracts further expanded participants’ knowledge of sustainable corporate operations.
In addition to professional development, self-reflection was also given space: many students recognized the need to improve their presentation and communication skills, and to apply theoretical knowledge more confidently in practical situations. Others highlighted the importance of deepening their knowledge in finance, trading, or sustainability.
Ultimately, the course highlighted that an interdisciplinary approach is essential for understanding modern economic and environmental challenges, while reinforcing the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability. The positive feedback reflected both the quality of the content and the high standard of the presentations, and students considered the program to be both intellectually challenging and practically relevant. Based on this, the program stands as an excellent example of how practice-oriented higher education can contribute to preparing the professionals of the future.
Photos: Schneider Electric