Bank of Kigali Academy celebrated the graduation of 25 students of the third cohort of the Entry-Level Training Programme (ELTP) on Tuesday, November 26.

The students were selected from best-performing university graduates in fields such as finance, accounting, business, and information technology, among others.

BK Academy’s programme has equipped students with both technical and soft skills, preparing them to contribute to the financial sector.

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The graduation ceremony held at Serena Hotel showcased the students’ acquired skills and their many talents including the presentations on business improvement projects.

Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali told the graduates that with a strong commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals and fostering innovation, Bk is paving the way for Rwanda’s financial sector to shine on a global scale.

"Through mutual accountability and constant challenges, we aim to remain leaders in the industry. I was challenged today when I saw the creativity of our young people, asking for analytics and insights rather than just account statements. That is the spirit we need, constant innovation and pushing boundaries,” Karusisi said.

"We commit to providing an environment where you can learn and grow, but I will also hold you accountable to challenge us and contribute to the growth of the bank and the broader community.”

Do not settle for little things, keep challenging us. It is the only way we will keep progressing, growing, and becoming true leaders in the financial sector, she said.

Joseph Gondwe, the Chief People and Culture at Bank of Kigali, told the graduates that the graduation marks not just the end of a chapter but the start of an extraordinary journey.

"To our graduates, the future lies in your hands. Your ideas and potential inspire confidence, making it clear that the road ahead is bright,” Gondwe said.

"You are the future leaders, innovators, and trailblazers. The journey ahead comes with responsibility, but you will not walk it alone, you will be well supported. From this moment on, it is no longer just about you as a person but your team, your leadership, and fostering the performance-driven culture we strive for.”

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Bertin Karake Twahirwa, representative of students, said that as the world embraces Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation, the BK App is leading the change onfthe innovation that they are bringing to the table.

"We must ensure the BK App does not fall behind, the world is moving forward, and we have to move with it. Innovation in the BK App is key to staying aligned with global trends. The in-app notification system will remind clients of important deadlines, like paying for taxes or any other expenses, to avoid penalties. The innovation is about making clients’ experience easier and more efficient,” said Twahirwa.

"We are not abandoning the star *334# service, but the world is shifting toward AI-driven systems. Our goal is to simplify and enhance the experience for clients who are embracing development through the BK App.”

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Larissa Niyibambe, a member of the ELTP 3rd cohort, told The New Times that the program equipped her with skills in communication, emotional management, fostering a positive environment, understanding financial markets, deposit mobilisation, and loan services.

"The key lesson was understanding the customer's business. If you do not truly know your customer or understand what they do, be cautious before granting a loan. Take the time to learn about their needs, who they are, and how you can best assist them. Without this understanding, you risk providing something they don’t want, even when you have exactly what they need,” said N