Tàndem Project Bridges Andorran Students and Firms for Real-World Innovation

Students and companies at the Aixovall vocational training centre have spent the past decade collaborating through the Tàndem project to develop real-world, innovative solutions with direct impact on Andorra's job market.

Running from September to February, the initiative dedicates three hours weekly within the regular class schedule. Around 70 second-year students this year formed 12 mixed groups, drawing from various fields, to tackle challenges posed by partner firms. Teacher Noemí Pons described the process as a team effort marked by clear progress, highs and tensions, culminating in tangible results that highlight participants' dedication.

The programme kicks off unconventionally: groups get 40 minutes to transform a low-value item—a lemon—into something more valuable, testing their management skills and creativity from the start. Teams then analyse the company, study competitors, and brainstorm ideas. "The hardest part is grounding concepts," Pons noted. "They either aim too high or suggest existing solutions. The challenge lies in balancing originality and feasibility."

Companies visit the centre to review proposals, provide guidance, and bring in external experts. The pace intensifies in January with a three-day "accelerator" phase—five hours daily—leading to semifinals and a final pitch before a panel including centre representatives, Andorra Business, and collaborating firms.

Director Gregori Gutiérrez called Tàndem the "centre's flagship project." It brings businesses into the classroom, letting students apply marketing and entrepreneurship skills to genuine problems, not simulations. This boosts motivation and outcomes, he said. Some ideas have even been adopted by companies, with firms offering training placements to refine them.

Participants emphasise personal growth. Nursing assistant student Luana Nogueira said it fosters creativity and deeper commitment to real clients. Despite frustrations and arguments, clear task division and communication restored balance. Informatics and networks technician student Àlex Pla gained confidence, realising his ideas held value. He recalled finals-day nerves fading on stage, replaced by focus and relief.

Both urged future participants to stay committed without obsessing, listen actively, approach challenges calmly, respect teammates, and trust their potential. Pons added that the ultimate goal is for students to recognise their capabilities, often achieving more than they thought possible.