Bam challenges banking graduates

The Bankers Association of Malawi (Bam) has challenged banking graduates to go out there and bring positive change in the way banking is done in the country.

Bam president Misheck Esau was speaking in Blantyre on Friday when about 185 students graduated with certificates, diplomas and advanced diplomas courtesy of the Institute of Bankers Malawi.

The graduation was presided over by University of Malawi Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Alfred Mtenje.

Esau observed that the digital revolution has dramatically changed the banking industry, adding that banks no longer just take deposits and offer loans.

“Banks have morphed into financial institutions that offer a plethora of financial products and services ranging from credit cards to business loans to internet/mobile banking.

“The face of the banking industry has also evolved. The traditional jack-of-all-trades banker has been replaced by numerous specialist management positions,” said Esau.

He noted that with such a revolution the banking industry needs students that are geared to take up the challenge in banks.

As one way of preventing fraud in the industry, Esau said Bam has come-up with a code of ethics that will govern the conduct of the employees of all banks.

He promised that the banking industry will continue to ensure that the banking graduates are given priority when it comes to employment.

“This does not mean that they will not compete with others; they will do so through the interviews.

“It is our sincere hope the economy will rebound to growth so that the banking sector grows to create new jobs for our awardees of certificates and diploma today and in the years to come,” he added.