Jamaican corporations usually lament that university graduates lack the practical skills to succeed in business. However, the University of Technology (UTech) is actively combating this through the UTech Marketing Seminar 2009/2010. The seminar requires third and final year students to apply practical use to what they have learnt in order to pass their course.

The front lawn of campus was the domain of the third-year marketing communications students. For 25 per cent of their final grade they had to come up with innovative business ideas and attract customers.

Each tent was brightly decorated and pumping music all with the aim of enticing customers. Once their attention was captured, customers swarmed the booths and indulged in treats such as hot dogs, pastries, candies and juices.

TEENage was informed by a member of the group ‘Sweet Tooth’ that in the midst of the transactions teachers would inspect each tent carefully for marketing tools such as flyers, promotions and uniformity.

Camille Sinclair, the co-chairperson of the marketing seminar, informed the TEENage that the final-year marketing students operated the seminar like a proper business. The seminar encompasses a whole year of fund-raising activities, which are administered by a board of directors and chairpersons, all of whom are voted for by the students.

The main highlight of the seminar is Boasy Thursdays. Held every Thursday, the event operates under different themes each week, but always includes fun, music and food. TEENage was on hand to witness last week’s events under the banner “Games Day”.

Upon entering Boasy Thursdays, the sound of music and the smell of food instantly hit your senses. The Red Bull tent, the source of most of the food, was surrounded by students laughing, dancing and indulging in the various games on hand. The electronic games, donated by Str8 Games, were situated in a tent away from the noise of the other activities. Gamers happily indulged in favourites such as Tekken and FIFA while screaming at each other over the sound effects of the games they were playing.

Taurean Allen, chairman of sponsorship, was quick to thank the sponsors of Boasy Thursdays. The level of corporate support was evidence that the students are able to market themselves properly and put their knowledge to practical use, changing the stereotype of the Jamaican university graduate.

Text and photos by: Mikhail Raymore