Berea Students Win 2026 Econ Games

April 7, 2027

BEREA, Ky. – Berea College students finished first out of 30 national teams from 29 universities to win the 2026 Econ Games last weekend. 

Not only is this Berea’s first win – it’s the first time they have advanced to the final round. 

“Our students showed incredible persistence and growth, and very patiently built on what they learned from previous years,” said Dr. Nabila Rahman Biju, assistant professor of economics and team mentor. “What stood out most was their incredible teamwork and perseverance. Even after long days of classes, every week they consistently showed up to evening training sessions with dedication and focus. I am beyond proud of them.”

The annual data analytics competition, hosted by the University of Kentucky and Northern Kentucky University, focuses on creating a real-world data experience, in which students must connect data analysis to economic problem-solving.

At the Econ Games, participants create courses and hands-on learning events to help students connect real-world opportunities to what they learn in the classroom. 

Undergraduate students participate in a data analytics and research event designed to help them solve real-world problems. 

This year’s prompt focused on horse racing data. In just 24 hours, Berea College students designed and built a dynamic website featuring multiple fully functional applications – from race simulations to interactive tools – demonstrating both technical skill and imaginative thinking.  

Their work stood out not only for its creativity but also for its execution at a level unmatched by their peers.

Organizers say the Econ Games help students develop skills beyond the classroom, including technical and soft skills needed for careers in economic analysis.

The students representing Berea included An Nguyen, Basit Hassan, Faryal Fatima, Karina Ismailova, Kaylani N. Melendrez, Mahak M. Kumawat, Mahdi Sahraoui, Oussema Khlifi, Samundra Adhikari, and Sonam Tsering.  

Their success reflects not only their own dedication but also the mentorship of faculty members, Dr. Rahman Biju and Dr. Volker Grzimek, who have helped build this program into a powerful example of experiential learning.