The Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) UK and Ireland Chapter continues to champion the next generation of ethical leaders through its annual Responsible Business and Management Student Writing Competition. Now in its ninth year, this prestigious event— organised by Dr Jonathan Louw MCIPD, SFHEA from Oxford Brookes University on behalf of the chapter — has once again demonstrated the growing commitment of students and institutions to advancing sustainability, ethics, and social responsibility in business education.
A Platform for Innovation and Critical Thinking
The 2024 competition invited submissions across three categories: Postgraduate Reports/Essays, Undergraduate Reports/Essays, and Alternative Media, which encourages creative formats such as podcasts, videos, or infographics. With a closing date of 28 February, this year’s contest attracted 106 entries — a testament to the rising student engagement with responsible business practices.
Record Participation and Geographic Diversity
A standout achievement this year was the participation of 26 Business Schools, marking an all-time high since the competition’s inception. Entries spanned the Republic of Ireland and all constituent parts of The United Kingdom, including a historic first entry from a Welsh university (University of South Wales). This geographic diversity underscores the expanding reach of PRME’s mission and the universal relevance of responsible management education.
Judging Underway: Rigor and Expertise
Submissions are now in the hands of judging panels comprising academics from 10 PRME member schools, ensuring a robust and multidisciplinary evaluation process. Entries will be assessed on criteria such as originality, depth of analysis, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The top three entries in each category will receive prizes, while certificates will be awarded to other finalists. Results are expected on or shortly before 30 April 2024.
Participating Institutions: A Growing Network
The competition’s success reflects the collaborative spirit of PRME’s institutional network. In 2025, the following universities will participate, further solidifying the chapter’s role as a hub for academic excellence in responsible management:
- De Montfort University
- King's College London
- Oxford Brookes University
- Queen Mary University of London
- Robert Gordon University
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Ulster University
- University College Dublin
- University of the Arts London
- University of Bath
- University of Bedfordshire
- University of Birmingham
- University of Durham
- University of Exeter
- University of Glasgow
- University of Leicester
- University of Northumbria
- University of Nottingham
- University of Plymouth
- University of Salford
- University of Sheffield
- University of South Wales
- University of Sunderland
- University of the West of England
- University of Westminster
- University of Winchester
Why This Matters
The competition is more than an academic exercise — it is a catalyst for embedding sustainability into business curricula and fostering leadership that prioritises people, planet, and prosperity. By spotlighting student voices, PRME UKI amplifies innovative solutions to global challenges and reinforces the role of education in achieving the SDGs.
Looking Ahead
As we await the judges’ decisions, we extend our gratitude to all participants, faculty mentors, and institutional partners for their dedication to advancing responsible management. Stay tuned for the results announcement later in April and join us in celebrating the students shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.
For updates, follow the PRME UK and Ireland Chapter website and social media channels. Together, we continue to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.
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