We are pleased to announce that the Universidad de La Sabana, International School of Economic and Administrative Sciences (EICEA), Colombia, has successfully completed the Business School Impact System (BSIS) assessment process and has been granted the BSIS label.

The BSIS team recognised several strengths of impact at EICEA, which contributed to its successful attainment of the BSIS label, including its commitment to regional development, innovation, social and environmental responsibility, academic and industry integration, and internationalisation, among others.

Addressing the school for this achievement, BSIS Director François Bonvalet remarked:

“The International School of Economic and Administrative Sciences at Universidad de La Sabana in Colombia has demonstrated outstanding commitment to academic excellence, regional development, and global engagement. Through its strong industry collaborations, impactful research, and dedication to responsible leadership, EICEA significantly contributes to Colombia and the international business community,  sharing strong human values.  We are delighted to award the BSIS label to recognise the school’s measurable impact and commend its faculty, students, and leadership for this well-earned achievement.”

Universidad de La Sabana, International School of Economic and Administrative Sciences (EICEA)

Founded in 1979, the International School of Economic and Administrative Sciences (EICEA) at Universidad de La Sabana is a private business school in Colombia, enrolling approximately 3,000 students across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programmes. Known for its superior academics, industry partnerships, and commitment to sustainable development, EICEA plays a pivotal role in shaping responsible business leaders.

EICEA holds top-tier national and international accreditations, including EFMD Programme Accreditation. It ranks as the 6th best university in Colombia and 36th in Latin America (QS 2024), offering students a top-tier education with strong industry connections.

The school fosters innovation, leadership, and business impact at both regional and international levels through executive education, research, and entrepreneurship. Committed to developing socially responsible global leaders, the school prioritises internationalisation, industry links, project-based learning, and pedagogical innovation. A focus on Ethics, Responsibility, and Sustainability (ERS) enhances the learning experience across all programmes.

Universidad de La Sabana actively contributes to regional economic and social progress, connecting businesses, public authorities, and academia. Initiatives like Sabana Centro Cómo Vamos and Sabana Centro, a Sustainable Province, demonstrate its commitment to sustainability, social impact, and governance.

Supporting entrepreneurs and microbusiness owners through strategic programmes

The total financial impact of EICEA amounts to $67.2 million USD, significantly enhancing Universidad de La Sabana’s influence in Bogotá and the Sabana Centro region, which generates 30% of Colombia’s GDP. Business creation and student expenditures contribute over $9.5 million USD annually, supporting local businesses.

EICEA’s alumni network boasts 10,431 members, with 89.4% employer satisfaction, reflecting the school’s strong academic foundation and relevance in the industry. The school drives social and economic impact through internships, entrepreneurship programmes, and collaborations with businesses and alumni networks, with 36% of graduates influencing the local/regional economy.

Through strategic initiatives like the FORMA-EMPRENDE programme, EICEA provides personalised advisory services to entrepreneurs and microbusiness owners in Cundinamarca. It has trained 3,310 entrepreneurs across 57 municipalities. The Service Consultancy Office offers short talks and mentoring in service, hospitality, quality, and social responsibility. By May 2024, it had trained 20,148 individuals, including 601 local entrepreneurs.

The laboratory Trade Hub Unisabana provides strategic advice on international operations. It has supported 57 national companies and collaborated with international firms through partnerships with the Colombian Chamber of Commerce and global consultancies.

EICEA is a leading research institution, with 142 indexed journal articles, 6 books, 17 book chapters, and 322 academic events in the past three years. Research areas include humanitarian logistics, circular economy, and business innovation.

Advancing sustainability and CSR with environmental initiatives

The FORMA-EMPRENDE programme drives EICEA’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem, impacting more than 3,000 entrepreneurs. The Centro de Emprendimiento e Innovación Sabana (CEIS) and business incubation initiatives further stimulate regional economic growth.

With 723 industry agreements, the school maintains strong ties to the business sector. Collaborations with organisations such as Aesabana and Prodensa provide hands-on industry experience for students and faculty, benefiting local enterprises.

In line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), EICEA implements environmental initiatives, including wastewater treatment, carbon footprint measurement, and a zero-paper project. Its commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident in the 3S Campus initiative (Seguro, Saludable, and Sostenible) and institutional policies on diversity and inclusion.

EICEA’s global network spans 65 international partners in 28 countries, many of which hold multiple accreditations, including EQUIS. Dual degree programmes, student exchanges, and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiatives strengthen its international presence.

Faculty research significantly contributes to regional and national development, focusing on sustainability, supply chain efficiency, and economic resilience. Doctoral theses and consulting projects support local businesses and public institutions.

EICEA alumni hold leadership positions in both the public and private sectors. Employer surveys show 89.4% satisfaction with graduates, and 36% of alumni report a direct impact on the local economy.

The school maintains strong visibility in national and international media, with faculty featured in more than 100 articles in the past year. Active participation in regional and global forums enhances its reputation as a thought leader in business education.

With a clear focus on academic excellence, innovation, industry collaboration, and societal impact, Universidad de La Sabana’s EICEA has demonstrated a strong regional and global footprint, earning the BSIS label from EFMD in recognition of its broad contributions.

Catherine Pereira Villa, Dean of the International School of Economic and Administrative Sciences, Universidad de La Sabana, commented:

“Our projects, research, and partnerships drive real, measurable change, and the BSIS label proves it, positioning us as pioneers in impact-driven education in Latin America. This certification reaffirms our commitment to creating meaningful impact in our community and beyond.”