In a bid to foster practical learning and networking opportunities for its Master of Business Administration (MBA) students, the UDS School of Business proudly unveiled its maiden Business and Networking Bootcamp (BNB). This transformative event, an integral facet of the MBA Programmes, aimed to connect students with seasoned industry leaders, providing invaluable insights into the intricate workings and essential success factors of modern business. This milestone event was themed “Nurturing business leaders.”

The event was graced by distinguished guests and attended by 107 MBA students specialising in various fields such as Accounting, Finance, Procurement and Supply Chain, Public Administration, Marketing, Health Services Administration, Human Resource Management, Educational Management and Leadership and Management Information Systems, marked a significant milestone for the School of Business.

The distinguished Chairman of the BNB, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, Vice Chancellor of the University, set the tone for the event. Joining him were esteemed guests including the Pro-Vice Chancellor, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Ibrahim Gunu, the Registrar, Alhaji Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, the Finance Director, Dr. Mohammed Hardi Shaibu, the Director of Works and Physical Development, Ing. Yaw Debrah, and the Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Abdul Hayi Moomen.

Prof. Al-hassan emphasised the pivotal role of the School of Business within the University, noting its remarkable growth to account for over 25% of graduate students within a mere year and a half since its establishment. With over 250 graduate students currently enrolled in various regular and sandwich programmes in the School, the School adopts a niche approach, leveraging its Third-Trimester Field Practical Programme to pioneer a unique model of BNB, distinguishing it from other MBA programmes nationwide.

The Dean of the School of Business, Prof. Ibrahim Osman Adam, outlined the School's commitment to ensuring the sustainability of the BNB and elaborated on strategies to bolster alumni networking beyond graduation.

The first day of the BNB, held on April 13th, 2024, featured three keynote speakers renowned in their respective fields. Mr. Emmanuel Doni-Kwame, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce, Ghana, delivered insights into global business trends under the theme "Navigating Global Business: Challenges and Opportunities in the 21st Century." His expertise in international trade and business standards provided vital guidance to aspiring business leaders.

Following Mr. Doni-Kwame, Mr. Dela Agbo, Chief Executive Officer of EcoCapInvestment Ltd, Accra, shared insights on investment banking in his talk titled "Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Investment Banking: Insights and Strategies for Success." With over 20 years of industry experience, Mr. Agbo's expertise resonated with students preparing to enter the dynamic world of finance.

The third keynote speaker, Ms. Sepenica Darko, Founder and CEO of FarmerTribe Company Limited, recounted her journey from studentship to entrepreneurship. Her talk, "Transitioning from Studentship to Entrepreneurship: The FarmerTribe Story," inspired students with tales of perseverance and innovation in the agricultural sector.

The second day, April 14th, featured equally impressive speakers. Ms. Dora Haborsutei Torwiseh, Founder of Nuts for Growth (N4G), shared her leadership insights in the agribusiness sector, while Mr. Senyo Kpelly, Founder of Sekaf Ghana Limited, highlighted innovation in natural beauty products.

The event culminated in student breakout sessions, where seven groups brainstormed and presented on various entrepreneurial topics, moderated by seasoned entrepreneur, Mr. Abdul Rashid Iddrisu, a lecturer in the Department of Marketing.

Reflecting on the success of the BNB, Vice Dean, Prof. Issahaku Haruna expressed optimism for future editions, promising even greater outcomes as the event evolves to encompass all planned components.

The inaugural Business and Networking Bootcamp stands as a testament to UDS School of Business's commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and networks to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.