Nov
Innovation in Virtual Professional Practices
In an interconnected world, collaboration between companies and universities plays a key role in shaping future professionals. In this context, Citromax has partnered with the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Engineering at UNSTA to implement an innovative program of Virtual Professional Practices and Workshops based on the Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodology.
Living Labs: Spaces for Research and Collaboration
This initiative strategically connects academia, society, and businesses to create spaces for research and collaboration. Known as living labs, this approach allows students to apply their knowledge and learn through real-life projects, working inactual teams and facing challenges such as overcoming obstacles and time management, among others.
Moreover, the value of these teams lies in their ability to address complex issues from a comprehensive perspective. These experiences enrich all team members and foster critical thinking, communication, and proactivity.
Course Format
During the second semester of 2024, 45 UNSTA students were part of the first cohort to participate in these integration spaces between academia and industry, following the PBL methodology.
The 15 students from the Faculty of Social Sciences, divided into three groups, worked entirely virtually on the following objectives:
- Conduct a global analysis of Citromax’s initiatives in the region.
- Assess the impact of the Sustainable Institutions program at the Concepción Therapeutic Education Center (CETCO).
- Analyze the Circular and Social Economy program at the Libertad Cooperative.
Meanwhile, 20 students from the Faculty of Engineering participated in Environmental Engineering workshops, held in a blended format (half in-person, half virtual), also divided into three groups. They engaged with real-world scenarios to apply concepts learned throughout their academic training, specifically:
- Agroecological Garden Workshop
- Biodigestion Workshop
- Biobed Workshop (soil remediation)
In all cases, the teams were led by Citromax Group’s Sustainability team, working consistently throughout the semester and meeting weekly to progress toward their established goals.
Impact and Future of Virtual Professional Practices
Education and learning methods are constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements that have accelerated change and created new opportunities. In this context, the partnership between UNSTA and Citromax is committed to creating disruptive, high-value learning environments.
In 2024, these initiatives provided tangible value to the company’s sustainability projects, program beneficiaries, and the students themselves by offering real-world professional experience.
This program stands as an example of how virtual practices can transcend geographic barriers to connect academia, private companies, and society. The experience not only reinforces Citromax’s commitment to social responsibility but also paves the way for other organizations to adopt this model, amplifying the positive impact on the education and development of future generations.
November 27, 2024
@CitromaxGroup