University collaboration with business shortlisted for national award
A successful partnership between Solent University and Enterprise Rent-A-Car (ERAC) has been shortlisted for the best collaboration between a university and a business in the National Undergraduate Employability Awards 2021.
Started in 2015, the partnership between the two organisations has been invaluable in offering development opportunities, providing real-world learning that boosts employability, and contributing positively to the business of ERAC.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Julie Hall says, “This is great recognition of a partnership that is an excellent example of the benefits of academia working closely with business. Our students can hone their skills and talents, getting them future-ready and prepared for the workplace, and the company can further develop their business through the transfer of knowledge from our staff and students.
“The close working of academia and business is vital to the recovery, development and future success of our local and national economies,” she continues.
ERAC recruit local people to work in their regional offices, to reflect the local community. Solent has students who are looking to work in the region after graduating. This partnership is helping retain local talent, benefitting not only ERAC and graduates but the whole region – economically, socially and culturally.
The success of the partnership is largely due to the fact that both organisations have a shared understanding of the importance of developing excellent leaders and managers - nurturing these skills, giving students responsibility and opportunities to be outward-facing and encouraging growth and personal knowing
The overall aim of the project is to add value to the student’s experience while they are studying -through placements and mentoring - and for the students to add value to ERAC and help the business develop, by changing approaches and knowledge exchange.
By breaking down barriers between industry and education, the partnership is helping both ERAC and Solent students to grow.
The National Undergraduate Employability Awards reward and celebrate the outstanding achievements of employers, students and universities in undergraduate work experience across the UK. The winners will be announced at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday 25 February 2021.
