Concurrent Sessions
Activating the Next Generation of Social Entrepreneurs
Social entrepreneurship is rapidly emerging as a key driver for solving global challenges, from poverty alleviation to environmental sustainability. The next generation of social entrepreneurs needs more than just theoretical knowledge — they require practical, hands-on experience that empowers them to tackle complex social issues in innovative ways. This session will explore how global internships in the social entrepreneurship sector can ignite student interest, provide invaluable career preparation, and inspire a lifelong commitment to social impact. Through these internships, students gain direct exposure to social enterprises, NGOs, and initiatives that work at the intersection of business and social good. They acquire the skills, mindsets, and networks necessary to lead and scale initiatives that create lasting positive change. In this session, we will discuss how global internships offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultural contexts, solve real-world problems, and collaborate with like-minded changemakers from around the world. This session will also explore the specific outcomes of such internships—how they shape students’ career paths, influence their entrepreneurial aspirations, and equip them with the tools to navigate the challenges of the social entrepreneurship landscape. Featuring case studies of successful global internship programs focused on social entrepreneurship, this session will provide concrete examples of how internships are helping to build a new generation of leaders committed to making a positive, lasting impact on society.
Speakers:
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Bob Athwal
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Gresë Koca
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M. Ibnur Rashade
Microcredentials as the Link Between Postsecondary Education and Workforce
In a rapidly evolving job market, postsecondary education must do more than just deliver broad academic knowledge—it must also ensure that students acquire the specific, market-ready skills needed for successful careers. Micro-credentials—short, focused certifications that validate specific skills—are emerging as a powerful tool for bridging the gap between traditional degree programs and the skills employers seek. These credentials offer an efficient way for students to demonstrate proficiency in targeted areas, enhance their employability, and align their learning with the demands of the workforce. The session will feature examples of programs that have successfully integrated alternative credentials into their programs, showcasing how these credentials support lifelong learning and can be stacked to create customized career pathways.
Speakers:
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Eve Price
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Katie Welsh Radande
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Michelle Van Noy
Student and Intern Mobility Across Asia
The global movement of students and interns offers immense potential for fostering collaboration, cross-cultural exchange, and economic development. Student and intern mobility within Asia, both inbound and outbound, is a critical element of building a more interconnected and globally competitive workforce. This session will examine how universities, businesses, and governments are collaborating to create pathways for students and interns to gain international experience within the region, develop skills that are relevant to the diverse economies within the region, and build networks that cross national and cultural boundaries. Through case studies and expert insights, the session will highlight successful initiatives in student and intern mobility and explore how these programs can drive deeper economic integration and innovation within the region.
Speakers:
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Jen Mrowka
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Joann Ng Hartmann
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Pankaj Mittal
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