A new leadership programme by EFA, Esade, and UdA exceeds expectations, promoting trust and joint efforts

A leadership and governance programme on public-private collaboration, organised by Empresa Familiar Andorrana (EFA), Esade, and the University of Andorra (UdA), opened on Thursday with 31 participants from both sectors, exceeding expectations and prompting plans for future editions.

EFA president Daniel Aristot opened the event by calling for a fundamental change in how administrators and businesses interact. He positioned such partnerships as a strategic pillar of Andorra's institutions, reflecting maturity and the ability to align on common objectives. Aristot rejected the stereotype of entrepreneurs seeking favours only to face official denials, emphasising that the programme seeks to build trust and create opportunities beneficial to all sides. Building confidence and shifting practices is challenging but achievable and worthwhile, he noted, adding that a mature society does not expect the administration to handle everything alone, while a capable administration recognises the value of private sector contributions.

The opening session at UdA was directed by Mónica Reig, associate director of EsadeGov. She stressed that joint training establishes a shared conceptual framework, allowing each sector to apply its strengths toward higher-quality public policies. The methodology encourages participants to share perspectives, challenge preconceptions, and prioritise the general interest, with public bodies setting goals and private expertise aiding execution.

Reig described public-private models as an extension of public action, where structured design ensures meaningful impact backed by social and political legitimacy, rather than focusing on scale alone. Success depends on market conditions, institutional capacity, and outcome-oriented planning, she said, warning against risks from activity-driven approaches. Public authorities must act as orchestra conductors, defining clear, measurable indicators to safeguard public value. Promising areas include infrastructure, social services, water management, housing, ageing, climate change, and urban development. Nordic countries excel due to robust institutions, data-driven decisions, and effective partnerships, with the Netherlands also a strong example. EU directives promote SME involvement through contract lot-splitting, while transparency, oversight, and evaluation are essential for accountability with public funds. Future challenges involve better training, improved communication, and impact-focused projects to foster public confidence.

UdA rector Juli Minoves welcomed attendees, underscoring the public university's mission to advance critical thinking, innovation, and open debate. He highlighted public-private cooperation as vital for addressing social and economic challenges, provided it rests on transparency, accountability, trust, and shared commitment to the common good. Hosting the seven eight-hour sessions at UdA reinforces this academic link, he added.

The strong response, with some applicants turned away, has EFA considering repeats to broaden professional development in public-private collaboration.