Forging Future leaders large group shot
Thursday, 6 March 2025

Forging Future Leaders: The MN6052 Project on Horizon Europe's Framework at Kemmy Business School

In a groundbreaking educational initiative at the University of Limerick, Master of Science (MSc) students participated in the pioneering MN6052 module, led by Dr. Matthew Daniels as project sponsor. More than just an academic exercise, this project featured diverse, real-world teams and a fully operational Project Management Office (PMO) with robust governance structures, providing students with an immersive and practical learning experience.

As part of the module, students were tasked with creating a nine-chapter book that reflects the operational and strategic complexities of projects funded under Horizon Europe’s Framework Programmes. This hands-on approach enabled them to engage directly with the challenges of managing large-scale projects, equipping them with the skills needed to lead EU-funded initiatives and address contemporary global issues effectively.
 

Forging Leaders Group 1
Forging Leaders Group 2
Forging Leaders Group 3
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Forging Leaders Group 7

Throughout the project, students refined critical skills such as punctuality, structured communication, and active participation—key elements in maintaining team efficiency and morale. Leadership and adaptability were tested rigorously as they navigated various project phases, tackling real challenges and adhering to the strict compliance requirements typical of European funding bodies.

Cultural awareness and effective communication were also emphasised, ensuring students could successfully manage the international diversity within their teams. This aligns with Horizon Europe’s emphasis on fostering innovation through cross-border and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

The integration of advanced project management tools and technologies enhanced operational efficiency while providing hands-on experience with modern digital tools essential in today’s technology-driven business environment.

Kemmy Business School, where this module took place, is Ireland’s largest business school and holds the prestigious triple crown of international accreditations—AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. This distinction places KBS among the elite 1% of business schools worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in international business education. The school’s rigorous academic standards and global recognition provide an ideal foundation for innovative projects like MN6052, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical application in real-world business and project management contexts.

By the conclusion of the module, MSc students had not only produced a comprehensive nine-chapter book but had also built a strong foundation for future careers involving EU projects and funding mechanisms. The MN6052 project exemplifies KBS’s innovative approach to business education, blending academic learning with real-world application to prepare graduates for leadership roles in international business and project management.

Kemmy Business School’s commitment to fostering practical skills and strategic thinking through initiatives like MN6052 underscores its role in shaping future leaders. These graduates will be well-prepared to drive innovation, manage complex global projects, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving business landscape.