We Answer to the Market (and are Proud of It)

I just read Dale Duchesne’s article on LinkedIn which tackled the topic of private business schools in Switzerland, and he made some pretty solid points about how schools like The Basel School answer directly to the market. Unlike large publicly funded institutions, we aren’t insulated from changes in real-world demand. Dale notes how private schools are more nimble, adapting faster to the needs of industries. And he’s right—when we see a new demand in tech, healthcare, or international business, we don’t spend years in committees debating it. We make the change because that’s what our students need now!

Another point Dale makes is how private schools rely on external accreditation as a stamp of quality. For us, accreditations and certifications like IACBE and eduQua aren’t just checkboxes; they keep us accountable, demanding high standards, continuous improvement, and a clear impact on our students’ success. But there’s more—our students’ outcomes are our proof. Every graduate’s success isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s validation for our whole model. When our students land internships, launch careers, and even lead companies, that’s what proves we’re doing something right.

Finally, Dale also addresses the unique challenges faced by private institutions, particularly in a Swiss context where state-run universities set the tone. He’s correct when he says that private schools have to constantly prove their value, and we’re more than up to the challenge. Our Practical Experiential Learning™ model is built to serve students and employers alike—providing them with skills that make a difference from day one on the job -- and that's something the mega publics can NEVER replicate!

If you want a peek into Dale’s thoughts, check out the article here.