UGBS Hosts Maiden Edition of Strategy for Business Analytics Challenge Cup
The University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) held the maiden Strategy for Business Analytics (S4BA) Challenge Cup on 19th December 2024 at the UGBS Graduate Campus. The competition showcased innovative solutions by students of the Business Analytics Master’s Programme, as they applied data-driven strategies to address real-world business challenges. The challenge was organised by Prof. Richard Boateng, facilitator of the programme. Prof. Boateng encouraged the students to embrace the competitive spirit and use the platform to hone their skills.
The challenge centred on developing strategies to address a pressing issue faced by CitiMed Hospital in Ghana. CitiMed has reportedly, a steady decline in patient visits and satisfaction levels in its Paediatric Department. Students were tasked with analysing the hospital’s data, identifying root causes, and proposing actionable strategies to improve paediatric care whilst sustaining growth in other departments like Fertility Care and Malaria Treatment, which have seen increased patronage and satisfaction. “The idea is to make students understand that their study has real-world applications. We are also trying to make them have fun while doing so. This is the maiden edition, and we hope to grow it into something bigger.” Prof. Boateng remarked. Students formed 5 groups for the challenge cup.
ABC Consult started the presentations and focused on “Data-Driven Strategy in Ghanaian Hospitals.” They proposed reducing waiting times and introducing community outreach programmes to improve patient satisfaction.
OptiMed Consult Ghana focused on “Data-Driven Strategy for CitiMed’s Paediatric Department.” They proposed the implementation of appointment booking systems, the establishment of a specialised paediatric team, prioritisation of preventive care and education, realigning budgetary allocations, partnering with NGOs, and leveraging telemedicine for accessibility.
SIM Solutions also focused on “Strategic Intelligence Management for CitiMed.” They proposed enhanced staff training and development, database and appointment system implementation, targeted communication, improved staff engagement and complaints resolution, and regular system updates.
MedBridge Consult presented on “Improvement of CitiMed’s Paediatric Care Unit. They proposed the adoption of international best practices, engaging private sector partnerships, and collaborating with academic institutions.
Innovation Growth Partners also presented on “Achieving Long-Term Sustainability in Ghanaian Family Hospitals.” They proposed the creation of a child-friendly hospital environment, implementation of regular training for paediatric staff, running marketing and public relations campaigns, and engaging the public to improve paediatric health awareness.
After rigorous presentations and deliberations, the top three teams were: 1st Place-SIM Solutions with 1,291 points, 2nd Place- OptiMed Consult Ghana with 1,150 points, and 3rd Place- MedBridge Consult with 1,136 points.
All participants received certificates of participation and medals to recognise their hard work and innovation. The top three groups were awarded challenge cups in addition. The success of the maiden edition has laid the foundation for future editions, which aim to expand the scope and impact of the challenge.