Economics Award 2004
The University of Navarra's
School of Economics and Business Administration has developed
the Economics Award 2004 to highlight the relevance
and creativity of applied economics when solving real world problems
and improving the world's standard of living.
High school students from Spain and abroad are invited to participate in this Award. Students are asked to work on a case study to demonstrate their understanding of the economic problems and challenges of a developing country. The country chosen for this year's study is China.
In the first phase of the Award, the students worked in teams (3-5 members each) on the case study. A dossier of information provided the necessary background information for them to handle three different tasks.
Task one was a descriptive analysis of China's
economic and social evolution in the last 10 years, and how did
it compare with other transition economies.
Task two demanded a slightly more in-depth analysis. Students had to analyse the main differences between a market economy and a socialist one. They were asked to analyse the relation between trade and foreign investment, and economic growth.
Finally, in task three , students were asked to recommend policies and institutional reforms to China 's government. Students should considered themselves to be the team leaders of an international institution which is collaborating with the Chinese administration in order to improve the living and economic conditions of the country.
The background material included:
1. Background
information about Globalisation and International Trade and
About
Public and Private Enterprises.
2. A
Country Report on China
3. Some references on Internet:
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/
http://devdata.worldbank.org/data-query/
http://www.imf.org/external/np/sec/pn/2003/pn03136.htm
http://www.imf.org/external/country/index.htm
In the second phase, all participating groups were welcomed to
take part in the 4th International Economics Forum organised by
the Chair of International Development. On November 4th, all teams
will present their results to the Faculty's panel. This panel
will choose the best four teams, which will go to the final round
on November 6th. The four best teams will present their case study
to the public and will compete for the 3.000 Euro Award. After
the presentations, the Economics Award 2004 will be given to the
team that presents the most viable solution.
The winning team, together with the University of Navarra, will select an appropriate project and be involved in the future follow-up and stewardship of this project. The winners are invited to maintain contact with the local project sponsor. By doing so, they can gain valuable insight in how economic aid translates into improving other people's living conditions.
