Shaping up the future of business leadership

The Islamic University of Technology (IUT) hosted one of the most prestigious national business case competitions-SMC Plus Presents BizNation 2.0 recently. Organised by IUT Career and Business Society (IUT CBS), the event brought together some of the most promising young minds from universities nationwide, challenging them to develop innovative and strategic business solutions.

IUT CBS has long been committed to bridging the gap between academia and the corporate world. As one of its flagship initiatives, BizNation provides a platform for aspiring business leaders to tackle real-world corporate challenges and demonstrate their ability to think critically under pressure. Anchored in the vision of "Rebuild the Legacy," this year's event challenged participants to rethink conventional methods to promote creativity, adaptability, and strategic, data-driven decision-making.

The day began with an inaugural speech by Professor Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, vice-chancellor of IUT, who emphasised the importance of strategic thinking in today's fast-paced business world. Pro Vice-chancellor of IUT Hissein Araby Nour and other distinguished guests attended the event.

BizNation 2.0 witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 150 teams from more than 30 universities participating. As part of the competition, teams were given a case from SMC Plus, and they had to come up with creative solutions for a real-world business scenario. After the first round, 10 finalists emerged, each demonstrating their ability to tackle diverse challenges. In the final case, teams faced a Ramadan-themed challenge by OVC, tasked with creating two new product flavours that incorporated elements of the holy month, aligning with SMC Plus's branding. Having crafted a compelling OVC to showcase their vision, the finalists stood before the judges' panel to present a well-rounded solution, articulating its core concept, strategic viability, and financial blueprint with clarity and conviction. The competition focused on product innovation and the strategic presentation of marketable business solutions.

Following intense deliberations, the day was concluded with the crowning of the top three teams. Centaurs from Bangladesh University of Professionals clinched the Champion title with exceptional strategic insight and execution. Jhalmuri from North South University took the First Runner-up position, while Mortgage Due from Bangladesh University of Professionals secured Second Runner-up, demonstrating remarkable analytical skills and business acumen.

The judging panel for the final round comprised industry experts: Mashharar Bhuiyan, additional operative director at Remark HB Limited; Omar Farhan Khan, senior business consultant & project manager at LightCastle Partners; and Fahrial Alam, deputy director- Corporate Sales & Development at Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC. Each of them shared valuable insights into the competition and the caliber of participants.

Fahrial Alam remarked, "BizNation was amazing this year. With a market oversaturated with copycats and inferior products, the participants were required to critically think outside the box, identify the target market with the most potential returns, and generate buzz within them in order to strike the highest amount of sales in the lowest possible budget."

Omar Farhan Khan reflected on his experience, saying, "The particularly interesting thing was to see students use the latest technology and merge it with operational strategies to solve the case."

Mashharar Bhuiyan, one of the founding members of IUT CBS, shared his pride in the event's growth: "The efforts and attention to detail the teams put into designing the perfect solution go to show how well and in-depth the young people prepare these days."

Wasee Ahmed Bhuiyan, team leader of Mortgage Due, shared his thoughts on the journey, highlighting: "Participating in BizNation 2.0 was exhilarating. I loved working with SMC Plus. From reimagining flavours and finding new target groups to developing creative Ramadan campaigns and robust sales strategies."

Additionally, Rohan Arpon, president of IUT CBS, reflected on the competition's journey and remarked: "This event is not just a competition-it is a dream that we have shared for two years. "

By challenging students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and push the boundaries of conventional business solutions, BizNation 2.0 continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of corporate leaders.

The writers are studying at Islamic University of Technology. mayeshatasnimeshika@gmail.com,

hasib.ikbal26@gmail.com