The UCL School of Management has been recognised as a​ “2024 Innovations That Inspire” Honouree by AACSB International (AACSB), which highlights our dedication to impactful, equitable, and innovative business education. This is an important achievement that showcases our commitment to academic excellence and societal impact. Specifically, it recognises our pioneering Next Generation of Entrepreneurs for Ukraine Lecture Series. 

In response to the adversities triggered by the war in Ukraine, the UCL School of Management has emerged as a leader in providing entrepreneurship education to Ukrainian refugees.

“This recognition is not just a recognition for our school but a testament to the resilience and potential of the Ukrainian community we aim to support,” says Pierre-Jean (PJ) Hanard, Entrepreneurship Education Lead at the UCL School of Management. “It reaffirms our commitment to fostering an environment where impactful entrepreneurship thrives.”

Adding to this sentiment, Davide Ravasi, Director of the UCL School of Management, reflects, “Being recognised as a 2024 Innovations That Inspire Honouree by AACSB International not only honours our innovative approach to business education but also reaffirms our dedication to societal impact. This initiative exemplifies our belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities, particularly in times of crisis.”

Our initiative stands out for its comprehensive support for displaced communities, offering a specialised seven-week lecture series tailored for Ukrainian refugees in London. This series, which includes a Pitch Day Competition where 10 talented participants present their startups, embodies our commitment to practical, impactful entrepreneurship education. “Witnessing the perseverance and hard work of our 42 participants has been truly inspiring. Beyond this series, our participants have formed a community of talented entrepreneurs and I firmly believe we are shaping a bright future for Ukraine,” reflects Nataliia Hrytsiuk, Lecture Series Lead.

The lecture series, endorsed by His Excellency Vadym Prystaiko, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the UK, breaks down barriers to education by providing sessions in Ukrainian, evening classes, and childcare provisions. Kostiantyn Koshelenko, Deputy Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine for Digital Development, Digital Transformation, and Digitalisation, emphasised the lecture series’ role in the recovery and prosperity of Ukraine during his live address at the Pitch Day Competition. 

Participants received personalised mentoring from UCL faculty members and access to resources like office space and workshops, fostering networking opportunities and business partnerships. The initiative’s impact extends beyond empowering refugees to innovate, offering practical tools for venture creation. “Without the dedication of colleagues across the School, this recognition would not have been possible. We are proud to work alongside such a talented and committed team,” added Davide Ravasi.

As we look to the future, the UCL School of Management is committed to expanding this pioneering model that demonstrates how entrepreneurship education can significantly contribute to economic growth and support conflict-affected populations. By aligning our efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we underscore our dedication to impactful entrepreneurship in addressing global challenges.

Find out more about the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs for Ukraine Lecture Series.

Read our 2024 Innovations That Inspire Honouree UCL SoM profile.