It was a true clash of intellects as the University of Johannesburg (UJ) played host to the much-anticipated 2025 UJ ABSA Challenge, a strategic finance competition designed to showcase the acumen of tomorrow's business leaders.
Held on August, 1, 2025, the final round was no ordinary event; it was a high-pressure arena where the top three teams, each comprised of five bright students, rose to the occasion with strategic presentations based on real-world business scenarios.
Teams were tasked with dissecting complex case studies, applying advanced thinking across strategic, financial, and operational domains. The stakes were high, and every team exhibited an extraordinary level of professionalism, creativity, and analytical prowess.
However, it was Group 7 that clinched the title, having left an indelible mark on both academic and industry judges with their comprehensive analysis, practical recommendations, and alignment with the CIMA strategic management framework.
“The UJ ABSA Challenge is more than just a competition, it’s a launchpad for future business leaders,” expressed Kevin Thomas, senior lecturer at UJ. “This year’s finalists exemplified the strategic thinking and professionalism that the CGMA designation represents.”
The members of Group 7 reflected on their journey to victory, attributing their success not just to individual talent but to the strength they found in collaboration
The members of Group 7 reflected on their collaborative journey to victory, emphasising that their success was not solely the result of individual talent.
Shelly Lerato Mahlangu who spoke to Saturday Star underscored the importance of teamwork, stating, “Winning this challenge wasn’t just about strategy; it was about teamwork, resilience, and believing in our vision. It was crucial that we worked together as a group. We held meetings, critiqued each other's work, and provided feedback to improve. That process led us to this moment.”
Mandlenkosi Masuku echoed her sentiments: “I'm happy that the team won after hours of preparation, it would not have been possible without collaborative effort.”
Meanwhile, Bill Katutwa addressed the challenges they encountered, saying, “Individually, we faced challenges; together, we found strength. Through every struggle and disagreement, we grew. In the end, we didn’t just win the competition, we built something stronger: unity.”
Gracia Kalend Yav remarked on their understated approach: “We were not the loudest in the room, but we showed up, worked hard, and let the effort speak for itself. Winning this means a lot, it proves that consistency and teamwork really do pay off.”
Neo Madavhu added a poignant note, stating, “We didn’t win just because of skill, we won because of trust, teamwork, and belief. Through every challenge, we showed up for each other. This is a victory that means more than just a title.”
The competition, a collaborative effort between UJ and ABSA, aims to simulate real business dynamics and encourages students to integrate strategic finance and management accounting in practical settings.
It forms part of UJ's broader commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce by equipping them with essential employability skills, including problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and effective communication.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star