Africa Business Concept Challenge 2026 Selects AUST Among the Top 6 Contestants

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, has secured a remarkable milestone as one of its student teams, SmartMumCare, emerges among the Top 6 finalists in the 2026 Africa Business Concept Challenge (ABCC), organised by the Global Business School Network.

The highly competitive challenge featured 349 students from 61 universities across 23 African countries, showcasing innovative business ideas aimed at addressing critical issues across the continent. AUST demonstrated exceptional performance, with five teams representing the university highlighting its strong commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving.

The SmartMumCare team, a collaborative effort between AUST and SUNY Polytechnic Institute, stood out for its groundbreaking solution in maternal healthcare. Their AI-powered platform is designed to reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths by enabling real-time risk prediction, early warning systems, and rapid healthcare response particularly in low-resource settings.

The team is led by Adejobi John, alongside members Michael Aperebo, Lisha Hassan Vasudev, Nimatullah Ibrahim, and Swithin Emeka Egwuchim. Their work was guided by faculty mentor Obichi Obiajunwa.

This achievement reinforces AUST’s growing reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in Africa. The university community has extended its congratulations to all participating teams, with special commendation to SmartMumCare for placing AUST firmly on the continental stage.

As the competition progresses, AUST remains optimistic about further success, reflecting its vision to inspire transformative solutions for Africa’s most pressing challenges.