The BIBF Training Forum addresses training requirements and development opportunities for sectors

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) held its annual Training Forum, featuring the participation of representatives of various stakeholders within the financial and insurance sectors, to address training requirements and discuss potential development opportunities for the human capital in the Kingdom.

The Forum started with an overview of the BIBF’s achievements and future strategic directions for the upcoming years, by introducing its new programmes and initiatives in partnership with international organisations and awarding bodies.

The annual Training Forum also highlighted the institute’s noteworthy achievements of the past year. Among the key achievements was the launch of the BIBF “Blockchain Academy”, which offers the world’s first Professional Qualification in Blockchain to start in January 2019.

Another major achievement was the launch of its “Payments Academy” to train and upskill financial services personnel and those who are engaged in technology solutions related to payments.

In line with market requirements for the implementation of VAT in the beginning of 2019 in the Kingdom, the BIBF had recently announced the launch of its “Tax Academy”, to provide knowledge, skills, and Tax Management competencies, through offering a flexible and comprehensive portfolio of training courses.

In light of the technological advancements that the corporate world is facing, the BIBF had also announced the launch of a comprehensive digital leadership development programme that supports the organisational digital transformation journey.

Considering Bahrain as a leading Fintech hub for the region, the institute will introduce a Master’s Degree Programme in FinTech in partnership with the University of Strathclyde.

The BIBF also presented attendees with the 2019 course catalogue that features more than 400 training programmes in all major business disciplines such as Accounting & Finance, Banking, Islamic Finance, Insurance, Digital Transformation, Leadership & Management, and Project Management.

In addition, the Forum addressed the needs and concerns of the training representatives and discussed areas of improvement. Feedback from representatives of the respective sectors was also noted in order to customise training programmes to be offered during the year.

The BIBF plays a pivotal role in the development of human capital for the financial sector, through the provision of programmes that help enhance employee performance and build a more engaged workforce, and is fully committed to ensuring adding value and enhancing development opportunities that serve to enhance employee knowledge and skillsets.