HOGENT and BUas strengthen ties in logistics education

The meeting brought together lecturers and researchers from both sides of the Dutch–Flemish border to share innovative teaching methods and discuss how to prepare students for a fast-changing logistics and supply chain industry. 

The visit centred on three themes: serious gaming in logistics, cross-cultural collaboration, and AI integration in education. Participants found striking similarities in their challenges and ambitions, laying the groundwork for a strong partnership. 

Learning logistics through play 

BUas showcased its long-running Blokko serious game, an immersive simulation used in the first semester of the Logistics programme. Students make real-time decisions on suppliers, customers, and inventory management using dashboards and even 3D-printed vehicles. 

Unlike most digital simulations, Blokko’s physical format, where students move through the building to “meet” suppliers and handle materials, makes learning tangible and memorable. The game hones crucial logistics skills such as teamwork, decision-making under pressure, and stakeholder management. 

Crossing borders in supply chains 

Global supply chains demand professionals who can work effectively across cultures. BUas demonstrated its Cross-Border Supply Chain (CBSC) component, where international student teams act as brand supply chain managers for Decathlon, tackling realistic challenges such as supplier crises in Asia. 

This event-driven approach develops both technical supply chain competencies and essential cross-cultural skills that logistics professionals need in international environments. The workshop resonated with HOGENT delegates, who recognised these same competency demands in their Supply Chain Management projects. 

Embracing AI responsibly 

HOGENT and BUas are actively exploring how to integrate AI tools whilst maintaining critical thinking at the core of education. Both institutions have developed comprehensive AI guidelines that share similar principles, reflecting a fundamental consensus. Rather than banning or fearing AI, education must adapt by focusing on higher-order thinking skills that go beyond what AI can deliver.  

Central to both approaches is an emphasis on transparency, human oversight, and the development of AI-literate professionals who can use these tools responsibly whilst maintaining critical judgment. This philosophy is evident in BUas's AI-mentor project for first-year students, which serves as an additional source of information alongside coach guidance. Rather than banning or fearing AI, education must adapt by focusing on higher-order thinking skills that can be enhanced through AI collaboration, enabling learning experiences that go beyond what was possible without these tools. 

A roadmap for collaboration 

The visit concluded with concrete plans for future cooperation, including joint projects, student exchanges, staff mobility, and peer review of theses. Both universities aim to combine their expertise to shape the next generation of logistics professionals: skilled, adaptable, and ready to navigate an increasingly complex global supply chain.