Home
With a keen interest in mathematics, assistant professor Yawo Mamoua Kobara was drawn to explore statistics with the goal of using data to address business challenges and support decision-making in emerging economies.
Dr. Kobara has earned two master’s degrees — one in mathematical sciences and another in financial engineering — along with a PhD in statistics which has driven his research interests. He explores using statistical analysis to address social and business challenges, focusing on areas of healthcare and finance.
Joining the University of Windsor as a new member of the Black Scholars’ Institute (BSI), Dr. Kobara’s research aims to develop tools and insights to improve patient flow and minimize discrimination in the healthcare system.
DailyNews will showcase the contributions and insights of members of the Black Scholars Institute leading up to its official launch on Sept. 26 and connected with Kobara to discuss his research and vision for influencing policy and business practices.
Q: Tell us about your research interests and what projects you'd like to pursue at UWindsor.
A: My research interests lie at the intersection of statistical analytics and social business problems, with a particular focus on healthcare and finance. At UWindsor, I would like to pursue projects that explore how data-driven analysis can enhance customer satisfaction and develop innovative methods for business data analytics. These projects align with my long-term goal of contributing to sustainable economic policies and advancing AI applications in business environments.
Q: Can you share a bit about your academic journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in business?
A: My academic journey began with a strong interest in mathematical sciences, which evolved into a passion for business statistics. During my undergraduate studies, I was drawn to how statistical and operational models can inform business decisions and shape economic policies. This led me to pursue two master’s degrees — one in mathematical sciences and another in financial engineering — as well as a PhD in statistics. My goal has been to use data to solve complex business challenges and drive informed policymaking in emerging economies.
Q: What led you to become a part of the University of Windsor’s Black Scholars Institute?
A: Joining the University of Windsor’s Black Scholars Institute was a decision based on my commitment to supporting Black underrepresented communities and contributing to a network of scholars with similar experiences and goals. I was inspired by the institute’s focus on empowering Black scholars and fostering academic and professional excellence.
Q: Could you explain the significance of your work and research interests?
A: The significance of my work lies in its potential to inform management and policymaking and innovate business practices through data. By focusing on data in healthcare systems, my research aims to develop tools and insights to optimize patient flow and reduce discrimination within the healthcare system.
Q: What do you believe are some of the most pressing challenges in your field today?
A: One of the most pressing challenges in analytics today is the ethical use of AI, including data privacy concerns and ensuring data-driven insights are accessible to all. With the increasing digitization of healthcare records, protecting patient data from breaches and ensuring compliance with regulations is a significant concern. Balancing data accessibility with stringent privacy standards remains a critical challenge.
Q: In what ways do you hope your research will be of influence?
A: I hope my research will influence policymakers, business leaders, and the academic community by providing insights that lead to more informed decision-making and offering new methodologies to improve business practices. Specifically, I aim to enhance healthcare resource utilization and patient satisfaction.
