In July, four students from the Department of Construction Economics and Management will be going to Hong Kong to compete in the finals of the Global Student Challenge. Brendan Ardagh, Alain Alexander, Courtney Meyer and James Myburgh in team Prestige Worldwide, will be joining teams from Glasgow Caledonian University, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Chongqing University, Bond University and Deakin University. The competition is organised by the Charted Institute of Building and team Prestige Worldwide will be representing the University of Cape Town at the finals.

                        

Brendan Ardagh (BSc Honours in Quantity Surveying 4th year), Alain Alexander (BSc Honour in Quantity Surveying 4th year), Courtney Meyer (BSc in Construction Studies 3rd year) and James Myburgh (BSc Honours in Quantity Surveying 4th year).

“Attending the Global Student Challenge finals in Hong Kong, will not only be an amazing experience but will provide us with an opportunity to network with influential individuals within the global industry. Mark Massyn was the academic mentor and he has been with us every step of the way, providing encouraging words and advice throughout the game,” said Alain Alexander.

Over the past six weeks over 50 teams from universities all over the world have been competing in the challenge. The teams have been acting as board of directors for a virtual construction company, in a simulated environment. The challenge utilises software developed by Loughborough University where players take decisions on staffing levels, estimating and bidding, managing cash flow and capital and seeking investment opportunities.  It is seen by the industry as an opportunity for university students to learn real skills in contract management, teamwork and leadership. Teams consist of four people who each take on a specific job role such as finance director, construction director or chief executive. 

The winning team receives £2,000 in prize money along with access to mentoring from industry leaders who will offer advice and guidance on their future careers and professional development.