How do we prepare today’s business students for an economy being reshaped by technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship, global competition and constant disruption?
This question has become increasingly important for universities, employers, professional bodies and policymakers. It is also the question that has quietly guided the evolution of the Tertiary Business Sense Challenge (TBSC) since its inception in 2019.
On 18th June 2026, TBSC will officially launch Version 8.0, marking eight years of using healthy academic competition to sharpen the knowledge, confidence and practical judgement of tertiary business students across Ghana.
When TBSC was introduced through a partnership between Graphic Business and the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG), the vision was simple: to create a platform that would challenge students to apply classroom knowledge to practical business situations. Eight years later, that vision has evolved into one of Ghana’s leading platforms for developing future accountants, entrepreneurs, managers and business leaders.
Preparing future-ready business leaders
Today’s graduates are entering a business environment shaped by artificial intelligence, sustainability, digital transformation and global competition. Employers increasingly seek professionals who can analyse problems, communicate effectively, work collaboratively and develop practical solutions.
While classroom learning remains essential, students also need opportunities to apply knowledge, solve problems and make decisions under pressure. This is where TBSC plays a critical role.
Far more than a traditional quiz competition, TBSC challenges participants to analyse business situations, interpret economic and financial information, evaluate current developments and defend their recommendations before expert assessors. In doing so, the competition develops not only knowledge but also judgement, communication, teamwork and leadership.
Bridging the gap between academia and industry
One of TBSC’s most significant contributions has been its ability to connect academic learning with the realities of the business world.
Through the competition, students engage with contemporary issues in accounting, finance, taxation, economics, entrepreneurship, management, business law, sustainability and technology. They learn that success in business requires more than theoretical knowledge; it demands the ability to think critically, communicate persuasively and make sound decisions in uncertain environments.
Universities across Ghana continue to invest in the competition because of its educational value. Participants gain practical business exposure, professional networks and confidence that often extends well beyond the competition stage.
The growing list of participating institutions and past champions—including the University of Cape Coast, University of Ghana, University of Education, Winneba, University for Development Studies and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology—reflects the increasing importance of the competition within Ghana’s tertiary education landscape.
A front-row seat to emerging talent
Having served as Quiz Master since the competition’s inception in 2019, I have had the privilege of witnessing remarkable displays of intelligence, creativity, resilience and professionalism from students across the country.
Year after year, contestants demonstrate an impressive ability to analyse complex business issues, communicate their ideas and defend their positions before experienced professionals. Many enter the competition as nervous students and leave with greater confidence, stronger communication skills and a clearer appreciation of the demands of professional life.
These experiences reinforce my conviction that Ghana possesses an abundance of talented young people ready to lead our organisations and institutions into the future. What they need are opportunities to discover, develop and showcase their potential.
TBSC provides one such opportunity.
Looking ahead to Version 8.0
Version 8.0 introduces an enhanced competition structure designed to reflect the realities of modern business.
Participants will be challenged across key business disciplines, including accounting, finance, economics, taxation, management and business law. Greater emphasis will also be placed on analytical thinking, business case evaluation, presentation skills and real-world problem solving.
The revised format seeks to move participants beyond memorisation and towards the application of knowledge, strategic thinking and evidence-based decision-making—competencies increasingly demanded by employers and society.
As we launch TBSC 2026, I encourage tertiary institutions to embrace the competition not merely as a contest but as a developmental platform. I also encourage students to view participation as an investment in their future careers. Corporate organisations, professional bodies and policymakers must likewise continue supporting initiatives that equip young people with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly complex world.
Conclusion
As TBSC enters its eighth year, its mission remains unchanged: to identify, develop and showcase Ghana’s future business leaders.
The competition has become more than an academic contest. It is a platform for nurturing talent, promoting excellence and preparing young people to lead organisations, industries and communities in the years ahead.
The future of Ghana’s economy will depend on the quality of leaders we develop today. TBSC is helping to ensure that those leaders are ready.
TBSC BY THE NUMBERS
2019: Year of inception of the Tertiary Business Sense Challenge (TBSC)
2026: Official launch of Version 8.0
8 Years: Of promoting business excellence, critical thinking and professional development among tertiary students
16 Universities: Registered for the 2026 edition as at the launch date
4 Competition Zones: Northern, Middle, South-West and South-East
5 Competition Rounds: Theory, Calculations, Graphic Business Case Analysis, True/False Challenge and Business Riddles
6 Knowledge Domains: Accounting, Finance, Economics, Taxation, Business Management and Business Law
Hundreds of Students: Directly impacted through participation, training and mentorship since inception
Multiple National Champions: Including institutions such as:
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
University for Development Studies (UDS)
University of Education, Winneba (UEW)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
University of Ghana (UG)
Our Mission
To develop future-ready business leaders equipped with analytical, communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
Organised By: Graphic Business
Technical Partner: Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG)
Supported By: Leading corporate organisations, professional bodies and tertiary institutions committed to business education and youth development.
About the Author:
Alhassan Yusif Trawule, CA, is Head of Training and Development at the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG). He is the Quiz Master and Technical Lead for the Tertiary Business Sense Challenge (TBSC).
