DURHAM COLLEGE
Supply Chain students embrace experiential learning

Hands-on learning is a priority at Durham College (DC) and recently, students in the Supply Chain programs took advantage of two dynamic opportunities to put what they're learning in the classroom to the test.

Global Manufacturing Sustainability SAP ERPSIM Challenge

In this competition, student teams managed a virtual manufacturing company using SAP S/4HANA - the same enterprise resource planning software utilized by businesses around the world.

Over three weeks, teams made critical real-time decisions in areas such as procurement, production, sales, inventory management, and sustainability initiatives. Their goal was to maximize their company's financial valuation while maintaining sustainable business practices.

The DC team of Supply Chain Management - Global students Manik Badhwar, Deniesha Goldbourne, Ayokunle Ayodele, Ogooluwa Olafusi and Ravi placed sixth out of 22 teams from around the world.

"The competition was a great opportunity for me to apply the many concepts I had learned in my program," said Badhwar. "It was one of the most memorable experiences of my time at Durham College one I will never forget."

For Supply Chain Program Coordinator Jennifer Souch, the team's success in the competition was proof that their effort, dedication, and teamwork had paid off, and that her students are ready to launch successful careers.

"They demonstrated their ability to apply supply chain and enterprise resource planning knowledge in a practical setting," said Souch. "Employers highly value hands-on experience and participating in a global competition of this caliber sets them apart in a competitive job market. It highlights their ability to make data-driven decisions, collaborate effectively, and adapt to complex business challenges all essential skills for success in the industry."

Collaborative Online Integrated Learning (COIL) initiative

DC and Inholland University partnered to give students a unique opportunity to collaborate with their peers on the other side of the world. Hundreds of students from each school took part in analyzing the fresh-cut flower and timber supply chains and providing actionable recommendations aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By taking part in the project, our DC students enhanced their intercultural communication skills, gained experience working in diverse, virtual teams and strengthened their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Working in concert with the SDGs was particularly helpful, as it challenged the students to consider real world problems that exist globally and how they might address them, according to Faculty Member Allana Persaud.

"Companies are looking for solution-oriented people. It's one thing to know how to run a supply chain. It's another thing to know how to proactively manage a supply chain with risk management, ensuring that you're always looking ahead," she said.

The initiative was an invaluable opportunity for experiential learning that will give the students an edge in the job market.

"If you're in an interview and you're asked about your experience, and you don't have any, this project is something practical you can build upon," said Chinasa Chukwuezue, one of the participating students.