Enthusiastic students from the University of Engineering & Technology (UET), Lahore, claimed first prize at the Grand Slam of ‘Battle of Minds’ competition held here.
Students of IBA and LUMS respectively secured second and third positions.
The event was organised by the Pakistan Tobacco Company and was based on the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The participating teams focused the case study on the afforestation programme of the company and managing it on sustainable basis and bringing increased benefits to the community.
The winning team of UET, Lahore, comprised Waqas Saeed, Mohsin Ashraf Khan, Rohail Hussain Khiwi and Noman Ahmed. The winning team’s proposal was based on Biomass.
Federal Secretary for Education Jehangir Bashar awarded prizes to winning teams and appreciated efforts of students as well as the company on completing a successful learning-oriented experience. The top three teams were not only awarded cash prizes but also guaranteed internships and prospects of employment with the Pakistan Tobacco Company. PTC CEO and MD William Toh as well as senior management of the company were present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, William Toh outlined the intent of the initiative, highlighting the benefit to students through exposure to Corporate Social Responsibility, best practices and the interaction with the company.
He also assured that their suggestions would be considered for incorporation in the company’s CSR initiatives. Prospective graduates from Institute of Business Administration (Karachi), Lahore University of Management Sciences, Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute and Electrical & Mechanical Engineering College also participated in the competition and presented different ideas and case studies for PTC management to consider for its CSR programmes. A total of 122 teams from across the country applied. Four teams from each campus were short-listed to join the contest.