UGBS/BASA Holds Orientation for Level 300 Business Analytics Students
The University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), in collaboration with the Business Analytics Students Association (BASA), has organised an orientation programme for Level 300 Business Analytics students to provide clarity, direction, and support as they begin the programme. The event was held on Friday, 16 January 2026, at the R.S. Amegashie Auditorium. The orientation also served as a platform to officially introduce faculty members, programme requirements, and key support units to students, as the programme admits its second cohort since its introduction at UGBS.
The programme was attended by faculty from the Department of Operations and Management Information Systems (OMIS), including Prof. Eric Afful-Dadzie, Head of Department; Prof. Acheampong Owusu; Prof. Anthony Afful-Dadzie; Dr. Emmanuel E. Ferguson; Dr. Abeeku Sam Edu, Course Advisor; and Dr. Kwaku Ohene-Asare. Mr. Charles Turkson, Departmental Secretary; Mr. Michael Kokoroko, Academic Office; and Mr. Gabriel Quainoo from the IT Unit were also present
In his opening remarks, the Course Advisor, Dr. Abeeku Sam Edu, assured students of his availability for academic guidance and support. He explained the relevance of Business Analytics in a data-driven world, and the growing demand for skilled professionals who can support industry and business decision-making. He also outlined the programme structure, including core and elective courses, credit hours, and other key academic requirements.
Prof. Eric Afful-Dadzie described Business Analytics as not only a programme but “a way of thinking” that is gradually becoming a way of life. He noted that data is rapidly accumulating and remains central to decision-making, industry growth, innovation, and artificial intelligence. According to him, the programme is designed to train students as problem solvers by equipping them with skills in data analysis, statistics, programming, and coding. He highlighted career opportunities available to graduates, including roles as data engineers, AI automation experts, and consultants, and encouraged students to take advantage of internship opportunities and complementary online training. He also stressed the importance of ethics, responsibility, and trust as the profession demands.
Prof. Acheampong Owusu spoke about the practical nature of the programme and cautioned students against relying solely on reading, especially during examinations. He advised them to engage consistently in hands-on learning to succeed academically. Dr. Kwaku Ohene-Asare encouraged students to take data cloud technologies seriously and to remain focused and hardworking, adding that opportunities, including scholarships for postgraduate studies in the programme, are available for dedicated students. Prof. Anthony Afful-Dadzie expressed excitement about the growing student numbers in the programme and advised students to uphold ethical standards, particularly by completing assignments independently, as this is essential for skill development and future career success.
Dr. Hanan Yakubu highlighted the data-intensive nature of the programme and the importance of mastering analytical tools and critical thinking skills. She encouraged students to build strong foundations, practise consistently, and avoid last-minute learning. While acknowledging the role of artificial intelligence in learning, she cautioned students against overreliance on AI for assignments and urged them to develop the ability to defend their ideas and analyses. She also encouraged students to engage lecturers for academic support rather than resorting to complaints.
Mr. Michael Kokoroko from the Academic Office briefed students on registration procedures, timelines, and where to seek assistance regarding undergraduate academic activities. Mr. Gabriel Quainoo of the IT Unit also introduced students to the UGBS Laptop Library. He explained the laptop application process, conditions for borrowing, duration of use, and available IT support services.
Delivering remarks on behalf of BASA, the President, Mr. Jeremy Azumah, outlined the Association’s activities since its formation, including seminars with Google, lectures with the Data Protection Authority (DPA), and internship opportunities with institutions such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), PETRA, Glico, and TV3 Ghana.