As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation continue to advance rapidly, the way businesses operate is constantly evolving, placing increasingly higher demands on management capabilities. Developing these competencies early is essential for students as they prepare to enter the future workplace.
In response to these changing demands, the “NextGen Manager 2026 – Shaping the AI-Era Leader” competition is organized by the Faculty of Economics and Management, VNU-International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, in collaboration with the Federation of Economics and Management Faculty, iSupport Learning Support and Soft Skills Development Club, International School Marketing Club (IMC), and Skills and Events Club (IMRES). The competition is also supported by its media sponsors, Italian Atelier, CjC Marketing Agency, and Amplus Group.
The competition aims to provide students with opportunities to challenge themselves through simulated scenarios and real-world business challenges. Rather than focusing solely on specialized knowledge, it emphasizes participants’ ability to apply their knowledge, solve problems, and make informed decisions.
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN MANAGEMENT THEORY AND PRACTICE
Management requires more than just specialized knowledge. It also demands the ability to make sound decisions when information is incomplete, resources are limited, and stakeholders have conflicting interests. Therefore, students need to engage with practical scenarios that allow them to apply their knowledge and take responsibility for their decisions.
This approach is also a key focus of NextGen Manager 2026. Through individual challenges and group discussions, contestants develop their analytical thinking, systems thinking, and problem-solving skills. Notably, the group challenge does not involve a pre-appointed “coordinator”, requiring team members to take the initiative in organizing discussions, exchanging ideas, and reaching a consensus on proposed solutions. Through this process, leadership capabilities are demonstrated through the ability to guide discussions, listen to others, and collaborate effectively.
SHAPING MANAGERIAL COMPETENCIES IN THE AI ERA
One of the competition’s key features is its assessment of contestants based on a Behavioral Competency Framework, rather than focusing solely on specialized knowledge or challenge outcomes. Competencies such as analytical thinking, leadership, communication, teamwork, ethics, and accountability are evaluated through specific scenarios, providing insights into how contestants approach tasks and interact with others.
With the theme “The Profile of a Manager in the AI Era”, the competition emphasizes independent thinking and the ability to use technology effectively. Although AI can assist with information processing and generate potential solutions, managers must still independently evaluate available information, consider different options, and take responsibility for their final decisions. Through this approach, students are encouraged to integrate AI into their work while maintaining critical thinking skills and the ability to verify information.
STRENGTHENING THE CONNECTION BETWEEN ACADEMIA AND INDUSTRY
Beyond developing individual competencies, the competition also aims to bridge the gap between academic training and the practical needs of businesses. By incorporating real-world management challenges from businesses into the final round, the competition enables students to gain insights into organizational operations, apply their knowledge to practical situations, and receive professional feedback from business representatives. This allows contestants to better understand workplace expectations and identify the competencies they need to further develop.
In addition to the competition rounds, the business field trip and Networking Gala Dinner provide students with opportunities to meet and exchange ideas with managers, industry experts, and alumni. Through these activities, participants can gain practical management insights, explore different business models, and expand their professional networks.
With an expected participation of 400–500 contestants, IS-NextGen Manager 2026 is open to students from VNU-International School, other member and affiliated institutions of Vietnam National University, Hanoi, as well as numerous other universities. Across three rounds, contestants will have opportunities to connect, learn, and test their abilities through management challenges, ranging from demonstrating individual competencies to collaborating and solving problems as part of a team.
More than just a platform for students to test their management skills, IS-NextGen Manager 2026 also contributes to developing leadership potential and strengthening connections between the university and businesses. Through the competition, students can gain a clearer understanding of the demands of the modern business environment, progressively enhance their competencies, and better prepare for their future careers.
INFORMATION BOX: NEXTGEN MANAGER 2026 – AN OPPORTUNITY TO TEST YOUR MANAGEMENT SKILLS
NextGen Manager 2026 is organized by the Faculty of Economics and Management, VNU-International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. The competition is open to full-time undergraduate students from universities and academies nationwide. Participation is completely free of charge.
Registration deadline: Until 23:59 on November 6, 2026, via the website: nextgen.vnuis.edu.vn.
Round 1 – DISCOVER (November 7): Contestants submit a video presentation on a topic of their choice in either English or Vietnamese, combined with an online test assessing management thinking. A total of 40 contestants will be selected.
Round 2 – DECIDE (November 21): Contestants participate in a group discussion without an appointed team leader. A total of 16 contestants will be selected and divided into four teams.
Round 3 – DELIVER (December 5): Contestants tackle a real-world business challenge provided by a partner company. The six outstanding contestants will advance to the individual challenge.
In addition to the competition rounds, the program also features the NextGen Business Field Trip (November 14) and NextGen Gala Dinner Networking (November 28).
The competition offers eight awards with a total value of over VND 100 million, along with scholarship, internship, and employment opportunities at businesses. Contestants participating in Round 2 will receive a certificate of participation.
Source: Vritimes
