Graphic Communications Group Launches 8th Tertiary Business Sense Challenge as Experts Urge Skills-Focused Preparation for JHS Graduates

The Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) has officially launched the eighth edition of the Tertiary Business Sense Challenge (TBSC), a strategic initiative designed to sharpen the business acumen, critical thinking, and leadership capabilities of university students across Ghana. This year’s competition serves as a vital bridge between academic theory and industrial practice and is set to feature 17 tertiary institutions in its upcoming cycle. The zonal stages are scheduled to take place between June and August 2026, culminating in a national final where students will showcase their ability to navigate complex business scenarios and engage directly with industry professionals. During the launch event, GCGL Managing Director Ato Afful emphasized that in a rapidly evolving global economy, continuous learning and the acquisition of practical skills are non-negotiable for the youth. This sentiment was echoed by Abeiku Gyan-Quansah from PwC Ghana, who urged participants to move beyond the mere memorization of textbooks. Gyan-Quansah highlighted the importance of a genuine understanding of business principles and the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle to support the rigors of leadership. The competition aims to leverage technology to broaden students' perspectives, encouraging them to view academic and industry challenges as opportunities for innovation. This emphasis on practical skill acquisition extends beyond the tertiary level, as educational experts are also advising Junior High School (JHS) graduates awaiting their 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results to adopt a proactive approach to their transition. Just as the TBSC seeks to prepare university students for the corporate world, JHS graduates are being encouraged to explore diverse educational tracks, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Visual Arts. Experts recommend that these students utilize the waiting period to build digital literacy and hands-on problem-solving skills—such as basic repairs or crafts—which are increasingly essential for academic success in Senior High School (SHS). The overarching theme across these educational milestones is a shift toward holistic development and readiness for the future. For JHS graduates, establishing a consistent reading habit of at least twenty pages a day and engaging in open family discussions about school placement are seen as critical steps for managing expectations and preparing for higher academic demands. Collectively, these initiatives and advisories underscore a nationwide push to move the Ghanaian educational experience away from rote learning toward a model that prioritizes creativity, digital competency, and industry-relevant expertise. By fostering these qualities from the JHS level through to tertiary competitions like the TBSC, the nation aims to cultivate a more resilient and versatile workforce.