Why PechaKucha Matters for Student Presentations
The Corvinus University competition adopted the PechaKucha format, a structure that forces speakers to deliver clear, concise messages in a strict time frame. Each student prepared 20 slides that automatically advance every 20 seconds, limiting the total run time to 6 minutes and 40 seconds. This constraint keeps the audience engaged and prevents the common pitfall of overly long, unfocused talks.
For students, mastering this format yields immediate benefits. The discipline of scheduling 20 ideas into a tightly knit narrative improves outline skills; the rapid slide changes sharpen visual design; and the 6‑minute limit trains confident, pace‑controlled delivery—capabilities that employers value in the workplace.
Key Highlights of the First Open English‑Language Competition
Sixteen participants, many from international backgrounds, chose from a dozen timely topics: from the gig economy’s effect on labor markets to sustainability, digital diplomacy, and the life of digital nomads. The event was broadcast in English, with any Corvinus student holding at least a B2 level eligible to enter.
Competitive Excellence and Diverse Topics
Winner: a first‑year student from Uzbekistan, who earned a semester‑long Toastmasters membership. Shared second and third places highlighted the depth of talent; all contestants received certificates and a small Corvinus gift. The judges, comprising Toastmasters International members, focused on structure, content, visuals, delivery, creativity and audience engagement.
Learning From the Toastmasters and Faculty Feedback Loop
Toastmasters International—a global public‑speaking organization since 1924—provided expert guidance. Jury members sourced from the Budapest Toastmasters club and the Centre for Foreign Language Education and Research attended the event. A post‑competition feedback session offered students individualized critiques, covering transitions, timing, and visual storytelling mechanics.
Personal Development Through Practice
Interviewed participants emphasized that the hardest part was planning the flow of speech rather than selecting images. They advised practicing at home to stay within the 6‑minute window and to ensure smooth transitions. A recurring theme was the importance of repeated rehearsal as a teaching factor for effective public speaking.
Actionable Tips for Future Participants
- Choose a Captivating Angle. Even within a preset topic, hone a unique perspective that resonates with your audience. For example, turning a study on the gig economy into a story about personal career flexibility can add relatability.
- Structure Your Narrative. With only 20 slides, start with a hook, move to a central thesis, provide evidence, and finish with a clear call‑to‑action or takeaway. The 20‑slide rule naturally enforces a beginning‑middle‑end progression.
- Design Slides for Quick Reading. Use minimal text, high‑contrast colors, and supporting images. Remember, slides advance every 20 seconds—so a visual cue at each transition helps the audience follow.
- Rehearse the Timing. Each 20‑second segment should align with the slide, but the whole deck must not exceed 6 minutes 40 seconds. Record yourself and adjust fraseology to fit the limits.
- Seek Peer and Mentorship Feedback. Practice in front of classmates or the Toastmasters club; ask for critique on storytelling pace and clarity. The Corvinus Faculty can also provide formal scorings based on the competition criteria.
Consistent practice and iterative feedback are the fastest route to improved presentation skills. Whether you aim to present in a corporate boardroom or an academic conference, the same 20‑slide challenge cuts noise and focuses impact.
Future Opportunities and How to Get Involved
Corvinus University has announced that this competition will become a regular part of the autumn term, mirroring spring contests in less common languages. Students are encouraged to enroll in the Centre for Foreign Language Education and Research courses to secure prerequisite B2‑level proficiency before the next round.
Recruiting staff across disciplines—particularly those with International Relations, Business Information Systems, or Digital Marketing backgrounds—find the same skill set invaluable. Employers increasingly reward clear, succinct messaging in both written and oral form.
Key Takeaway for Students and Professionals
PechaKucha’s minimalistic yet rigorous format compels speakers to distill their ideas into high‑impact visuals and tight narratives. The Corvinus competition demonstrates that mastering such a structure can open doors to Toastmasters membership, professional networking, and refined communication skills.
Next Steps for Interested Students
- Check your English proficiency and consider enrolling in an advanced course if you fall below B2.
- Register early for the upcoming competition by visiting the Centre for Foreign Language Education and Research website.
- Volunteer with the Toastmasters club in Budapest to practice and receive mentorship.
- Use the feedback tools offered by Corvinus to refine your presentation deck.
- Share your experience and insights in our content portal to support peers.
By applying these strategies, students will not only excel in the next competition but also sharpen the core presentation assets required in the global job market.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Curious about how PechaKucha training can boost your career prospects? Contact the university’s admissions office for a free consultation and discuss how the competition aligns with your academic and professional goals.
