Hansgrohe, a key global player in the sanitary industry with a worldwide presence, has entered into a partnership with the Strathmore’s School of Management and Commerce (SMC). This collaboration has marked the beginning of linkages between theory and industry practice in the area of market research.

 

The collaboration was launched during a Marketing Research lecture. Speaking at the launch, Brian Ogembo, Corporate Business Developer at Hansgrohe, explained that the partnership will be key in enabling Hansgrohe recruit from the pool of high caliber Strathmore graduates. The students will also benefit from the internship programme at Hansgrohe.

 

Hansgrohe was founded  in  the  Black  Forest  of  Germany  by  Hans  Grohe  in  1901.  Hansgrohe is recognized worldwide for its significant contributions to the kitchen and bath. It has shaped the industry with numerous innovations and has more than 2,000 patents

 

Hansgrohe has a portfolio of awards as a result of being a pioneer in technology and design.  Globally headquartered in Schiltach, Germany, Hansgrohe serves customers in over 130 countries through 44 subsidiaries and branches.  The company manufactures and assembles many of its Hansgrohe-branded products in Germany where 80% of production takes place.  

 

This collaboration shall see the students write thesis on the company, which will go a long way in honing and perfecting the students’ research and critical thinking skills; especially in the areas of research and consultancy.

 

Furthermore, Hansgrohe will ensure that internships and job opportunities at its organization are first sent to Strathmore University. Other universities which Hansgrohe has partnered with include; European School of Business (ESB), German Graduate School, and University of St. Gallen, which also has a Memorandum of Understanding in areas of student exchange with Strathmore University.

 

The project collaboration will see Hansgrohe explain their company profile, as well as set a scenario to encourage and foster team work where the students will be left to work in teams. Hansgrohe will also provide information support to the students during the project guided by their lecturer. At the end of the project, the students will make a PowerPoint presentation to Hansgrohe and the lecturer.

 

The collaboration is important for all the stakeholders involved – Hansgrohe, the students and Strathmore University. Hansgrohe will be able to conduct their research directly in the market and will also be able to recruit from the all-round Strathmore BCOM students. The students will have a chance to put theory into practice on real life problems, acquire internship opportunities and a certificate of participation in this prestigious program.

 

Indeed, the collaboration between Hansgrohe and Strathmore University is a great step towards enhancing student experience and establishing industry linkages.