UGBS Engages WDI Publishing Representative from University of Michigan to explore Collaborations
The University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) on 26th March 2026 welcomed Ms. Diana E. Paez, Senior Director for Energy and Mobility at the William Davidson Institute (WDI) at the University of Michigan, to explore opportunities for collaboration in case study development and business education. The engagement took place at the UGBS Dean’s Office with some faculty members and management. During the meeting, Ms. Paez explained that WDI Publishing focuses on advancing business education through the development of management strategies. She noted that the institute operates as a non-profit organisation and serves as a publishing hub for case studies centred on emerging markets. These case studies are designed to support teaching and learning.
She further highlighted that WDI Publishing aims to expand students’ knowledge in business strategy by producing practical teaching materials that reflect real-world challenges. According to her, the institute has developed a case study and is seeking feedback from UGBS on its relevance and potential integration into teaching. She also mentioned opportunities for students to participate in case study competitions, which include cash prizes and fast-track publication options for participating universities. Ms. Paez additionally introduced the institute’s virtual exchange programmes which encourage students to investigate domestic entrepreneurial challenges and propose innovative solutions within their local contexts.
Welcoming Ms. Diana E. Paez, Prof. Albert Ahenkan, Head of the Department of Public Administration expressed appreciation for the initiative. He noted that the proposed case study aligns with the Ghanaian context and could enhance experiential learning. He indicated that UGBS values collaborations that support practical business education and student engagement. Prof. Mahmoud Abdulai Mahmoud, Head of the Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, observed that many Ghanaian researchers tend to prioritise journal publications over case studies. He therefore inquired about the motivations and incentives available to encourage faculty participation in case study development.
Prof. Mohammed-Aminu Sanda of the Department of Organisation and Human Resource Management suggested piloting the case study with students to gather feedback. He also emphasised the need to examine the limited interest in case study writing within Ghana and recommended analysing the issue to develop strategies for improvement. He added that the case study competition could help stimulate student interest and build momentum. Prof. Vera Ogeh Fiador, Head of the Department of Finance, also noted that the submitted case study presents potential value and indicated that the department would review it to determine its suitability for incorporation into UGBS academic programmes. Similarly, Prof. Godfred Matthew Yaw Owusu, Head of the Department of Accounting, recommended that the various departments review the material to assess its benefits and applicability across disciplines. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further review the case study and explore other avenues for collaboration.