MTN Ghana, in partnership with Absa Bank Ghana and NOVA Business School Africa, has graduated the first batch of 50 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from its pioneering Mini MBA programme.
The Mini MBA programme is an initiative designed to sharpen business leadership, strengthen operational efficiency, and fast-track digital transformation within Ghana’s growing SME sector.
The ceremony in Accra marked a key milestone in MTN’s broader mission to empower local businesses with the mentorship, skills, and tools needed to remain competitive in a rapidly digitising global market.
There is nothing small about you
MTN Ghana’s Chief Enterprise Officer, Angela Mensah-Poku, paid tribute to the participating SMEs, noting their crucial role in national development.
“There is nothing small about the businesses in this room,
You create jobs, generate revenue, and power Ghana’s progress. Calling you SMEs understates the scale and impact of what you do,” she told the graduates.
She commended participants for completing the intensive 13-week training despite the demanding realities of running a business, describing their commitment as a strong demonstration of leadership.
Angela Mensah-Poku applauded NOVA Business School Africa for delivering the academic content and Absa Bank Ghana for its partnership, assuring participants that MTN is committed to supporting their growth beyond the programme.
“This is just the beginning,” she added. “We can’t wait to witness your success stories.”
Preparing SMEs for a digital-first future
Mohammed Abubakar Siddiq, Senior Manager for SME Sales at MTN Ghana, stated that the Mini MBA is a strategic tool for enhancing the capacity of Ghanaian entrepreneurs.
“The programme equips SMEs with practical knowledge in strategy, innovation, and technology adoption—key components for thriving in a digital-first economy,” he said.
He disclosed that participants were selected based on criteria jointly developed by MTN and Absa to target businesses with strong potential for structured growth.
Plans are underway to institutionalise the Mini MBA as an annual flagship initiative.
Propositions Manager at Absa Bank Ghana, Georgette Amoako, reiterated the bank’s commitment to helping Ghanaian SMEs thrive through improved capabilities and access to growth opportunities.
“In the first half of 2025 alone, Absa supported over 1,300 MSMEs nationwide, more than half owned by women,
“We believe in empowering businesses with finance, skills, and networks that drive long-term growth,” she noted.
A life-changing experience
One of the graduates, Emmanaenie N. Akwetey of BOMRK Royal Company Ltd, described the programme as “mind-blowing, transformative, and deeply rewarding.”
“From the first day, I was captivated. The modules on digital integration, entrepreneurship, accounting, and tax completely changed the way I run my business. I now feel ready to elevate my company to the next level,” she said.
Encouraging others—especially women entrepreneurs, she said “Join this programme. It will sharpen your mindset, transform your operations, and boost your revenue. The training equips you to run your business professionally and sustainably.”
A programme built for modern business challenges
Delivered by faculty from NOVA Business School Africa, the 13-week Mini MBA combined virtual and in-person weekend classes, covering business strategy, leadership, finance, marketing, innovation, and digital transformation.
Participants came from diverse sectors, including manufacturing, retail, logistics, agribusiness, consultancy, and digital services.
Despite their workloads, the entrepreneurs displayed remarkable commitment to personal development and organisational growth.
