CIBN takes fresh approach to address skill issues in banks

THE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria ( CIBN) has unveiled a new Banking Professional Examination and Certification Programme Syllabus as part of its move to prepare the industry for the emerging knowledge challenges in the industry.

The Institute is looking beyond Nigeria’s market, hoping to leverage the vibrancy of the country’s banking sector, to launch into African and global space. Speaking at the virtual event, which had over 300 stakeholders in diverse sectors in attendance, the President/ Chairman of Council, CIBN, Bayo Olugbemi, said the unveiling was a milestone in the institute's drive to deepen knowledge and skills; implement the competency framework as well as serve as a global reference point for professionalism and ethics in the banking and finance.

He said the new syllabus would help to nurture a strong pipeline of talents and deepen skills in the workplace to support the continued transformation of the industry to stay viable and achieve competitive growth. Olugbemi added that the syllabus identifies global trends in banking as well as the requirements current and emerging skill gaps. He said the training would equip existing and potential members of the Institute with the required skills and competencies they need to succeed in their careers.

Oluggemi explained that the syllabus is a product of painstaking efforts involving the inputs and technical reviews of distinguished scholars, eminent bankers, employers of labour and others. He further said the syllabus comprises four modules in each of the three levels of knowledge areas while incorporating new areas such as public sector finance, sustainable banking and digital banking as well as expanding titles of the existing areas to reflect the current trends.

Chairman, Capacity Building and Certification Committee, CIBN, Rotimi Omotoso, said the syllabus represents the spirit of innovation in the practice of banking and finance, especially with its diverse uniqueness.