UBA Trains 400 in Graduate Management Programme
Kayode Tokede
United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc yesterday held the second edition of its expanded Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) where 400 graduates were inducted into the pan-African tribe after an intensive six months learning experience.
The graduates, from Nigeria, Ghana among other African subsidiaries, completed an intense capacity-building programme, combining learning with on-the-job training experience, garnered while rotating across the bank departments and units.
Speaking to the graduate at the 2024 GMAP in Lagos, the Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, stated that the ceremony simplifies that the financial institution is indeed a pan-African institution as it has participants across countries where it has presences.
Elumelu said: “Moments like this remind me of my own journey. It involved training, development and mentoring that helped me sharpen today’s Elumelu. What you have been through for the past six months is so important and remarkable in your career journey. You will cherish the six months spent in the classroom, difficult times and conditions that all prepared you for the task ahead.
“In our group, we believe in training, development, capacitating and maturing talents. We know that we cannot be on our road developing our continent, in transforming lives, and improving lives, if it does not start with individuals.”
He urged the graduates to keep learning, stating that learning is like a journey that never stops.
He expressed that the biggest challenge in Africa is on youth empowerment, stressing that the youth demography in Africa has become a problem for everyone.
“Unemployment of our youths is the biggest problem in Africa. Joblessness of our youths is a very cruel and tragic betrayal of our generation. A generation that we should be helping to develop,” he said.
He added that, “At UBA, identifying these young Africans, bringing them to the centre through the UBA academic, training and equipping them for the future ahead, not just only at UBA, helps to empower the next generation of African youths.
Speaking earlier, the Group Managing Director, UBA, Mr. Oliver Alawuba said the group is filled with pride as the next generation leaders emerged from the crucible of this rigorous programme.
He said, “Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment have been nothing short of inspiring. Each of you has demonstrated the qualities of a true UBA ambassador, and today, we celebrate not just your achievements but also the collective strength of our UBA family.
“I would be negligent if I did not acknowledge the invaluable support of your families and friends throughout this journey. Their love, encouragement, and understanding have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in your success. Let us take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for their steadfast support.
“I also extend my sincere gratitude to the faculty members, instructors, mentors, and the HR team for their unwavering commitment to the success of the GMAP programme. Your dedication to nurturing talent and fostering growth has laid the foundation for the remarkable achievements we celebrate today.
“May I take this opportunity to formally welcome all the graduating class to the banking industry. The industry extols professionalism, innovativeness, teamwork, integrity, confidentiality, service, and doggedness. As a banker, kindly focus on these values and never spend your time in pursuit of money and material things. Please note that the utmost essence of banking is service.
“I will like you to reflect on your time in the GMAP programme, remember that the path to success is seldom linear. It is paved with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But it is through overcoming these obstacles that we truly grow and evolve. As you embark on the next phase of your life, I urge you to embody the values and principles that define our organization – Enterprise, Excellence, and EXECUTION (the 3 Es), including the UBA Persona of Simplicity, Responsiveness and Goal-Oriented (SRG). Your internalisation of these values in UBA will keep you ahead of your peers and ensure a successful career.”
He said “At UBA, we believe in equal opportunity for all, regardless of age, tribe, gender, or background. We are committed to driving the transformation of our beloved continent, Africa, and today, you join the ranks of those who will lead this charge. You are the architects of Africa’s future, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion with courage, determination, and a deep sense of purpose.
“Never forget the importance of continuous learning. Embrace new challenges, seek out mentors, and remain hungry for knowledge and success. Your journey does not end here; it is only just beginning.”
