Introduction
Supply chain connects all of us; it is the backbone of business. It keeps the heart of the global economy pumping, trade. To add to this, logistics, procurement, production and operations management and many other related activities in the supply chain arena keep all stakeholders in any sector and value chain visibly connected. Furthermore, advancements in technology continue shifting the supply chain dynamics such as inventory buffers for the better. Data analytics, big data, blockchain, artificial intelligence are some of the latest game changers on the supply chain scene.
Recently with COVID-19, a major shift has been made in the business world, giving the supply chain field more importance and attached value, as it makes or breaks any business. Therefore, there has been a stimulation in demand for savvy supply chain professionals, experts, graduates and undergraduate students who are potential employees, self-employed people, investors and business owners in the supply chain field.
To conclude, supply chain keeps all of us connected to the goods and services we need and want, and COVID-19 showed us that. It showed us the need to ShiftToConnect one another.
Why ShiftToConnect?
ShiftToConnect is the first supply chain competition of its kind in Kenya for undergraduate students from all universities. It aims to solve two main issues: supply chain and its dynamics plus youth unemployment. Given that supply chain cuts across all sectors in an economy, all undergraduate students get a valuable opportunity to solve some of the most complex supply chain issues prevailing in any sector, while earning job opportunities or internship positions from the ShiftToConnect’s sponsors. Participants stand a chance to win cash prizes, trophies, gift hampers, and more.
To finish off, this year’s inaugural competition will take place in Strathmore University.
What is the value of ShiftToConnect?
To solve supply chain complexities and reduce youth unemployment in Africa to improve people’s lives in economic, social, environmental and technological aspects.
Why Strathmore University?
Strathmore University is a leading not-for-profit private university in Kenya, dedicated in continuously providing all-round quality education in atmosphere of freedom and responsibility excellence all-roundedness. Our aim is to constantly impact society by doing excellent work in a positive manner, through the entrepreneurial prowess of the university. All students and staff at the university, past and present, continue to display the trademark all-roundedness throughout Kenya, Africa and the world with over forty nationalities represented.
ShiftToConnect 2023 Timeline
Stage 1: Introduction (3 weeks) – 23rd June – July 14th
- ShiftToConnect competition registration is opened to all undergraduate students in all universities in Kenya.
- A blended (physical and virtual) ShiftToConnect event launch of ShiftToConnect will take place on June 23rd at the TransCentury Auditorium at Strathmore Business School in Strathmore University.
Stage 2: Reports (8 weeks) – July 14th – Aug 25th
- Teams begin to work on their reports and submit them by September 11th.
Stage 3: Shortlisting (2 weeks) – Aug 25th – Sep 11th
- Panelists evaluate reports and shortlist the top ten teams.
Stage 4: Mentorship – Sep 13th – Sep 29th
- The 10 shortlisted teams will be mentored by their allocated mentors.
Stage 5: Presentation – Oct 2nd – Oct 9th
- The 10 shortlisted teams will send a Zoom recording of their presentations.
Stage 6: Finals and Award Ceremony – October 13th
- The top three teams are chosen and awarded.
Awards
There will be a trophy, certificates, medals and more!
Theme: Supply chain digitization
This year’s inaugural competition theme is “Supply chain digitization” informed by SDG 9: Industry, innovation, and Infrastructure. SDG 9 aims to build resilient and sustainable infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation. Supply chain digitalization plays an important role in achieving this goal by facilitating the efficient movement of goods and information, reducing waste and emissions, and enhancing transparency and traceability in the supply chain.
Developing Great African Leaders
Key Details
In case of any questions, feel free to send an email to Shifttoconnect@strathmore.edu