Collins Sefa MTN Ghana and Absa Bank Ghana have launched the first cohort of their SME Mini MBA Program, a digitally-enhanced business development initiative aimed at accelerating the growth of Ghana’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
With 50 entrepreneurs and business leaders enrolled, the program seeks to equip participants with the tools, insights, and technology-driven strategies needed to scale in today’s digital economy.
The 13-week program, delivered in partnership with Nova Business School Africa, blends strategic business education with digital transformation principles, providing participants with a well-rounded foundation in four critical areas: strategic growth, financial advisory, business development, and operational excellence.
Empowering SMEs Through Digital Innovation and Strategy
In his opening remarks, Mr. Benedict Bentil, Senior Manager, Enterprise Marketing and Portfolio Management at MTN Ghana, reaffirmed MTN’s role in advancing tech-enabled business solutions.
“Today marks the beginning of something deeply aligned with our purpose at MTN—supporting Ghanaian enterprises to grow, scale, and thrive,” he said. “This program delivers more than just knowledge; it empowers business leaders to embrace innovation and lead with confidence in a complex, digital-first environment.”
A Corporate Alliance for Digital-Ready SMEs
According to Mr. William Nettey, Acting Business Banking Director and Head of Agribusiness Desk at Absa Bank Ghana, the goal is to elevate SMEs beyond traditional boundaries.
“We want these SMEs to become global—exporting, earning foreign exchange, and growing the economy. By leveraging the expertise of MTN and Nova Business School, we aim to help SMEs adopt technology and scale sustainably,” he stated.
Customised Learning and Global Tech Partnerships
Professor Matthew Tsamenyi, President of Nova Business School Africa, emphasized the program’s experiential learning model, which includes tailored digital advisory, structured mentorship, and access to global networks.
“Our goal is to transform SMEs into mid-sized and large enterprises with Pan-African and global footprints,” said Professor Tsamenyi. “We’re not just delivering a course; we’re building an ecosystem of digital-savvy business leaders.”
Participants will benefit from ongoing support post-program, including access to Nova’s Business Advisory Unit and strategic partnerships with Alibaba Group in China, opening up global market opportunities and digital commerce platforms.
Creating a Future-Ready SME Sector
With Ghana’s SME sector forming a significant part of the economy, this initiative positions selected entrepreneurs to leverage digital tools, cloud solutions, and data-driven strategies for expansion.
The program aligns with broader national goals of economic digitization, financial inclusion, and export-led growth. By merging corporate strength, academic rigor, and global tech networks, the SME Mini MBA Program sets a new standard for business-tech empowerment in West Africa.
As the 13-week journey unfolds, the collaboration between MTN Ghana, Absa Bank Ghana, and Nova Business School is expected to transform participating SMEs into digitally-equipped, globally competitive businesses ready to lead Ghana’s economic future.
