NMB, NM-AIST partner to nurture talent in digitech

DAR ES SALAAM: NMB Bank has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) to identify, incubate and foster talent in digital technology innovation.

The agreement will also support research and innovation by NM-AIST graduates and experts, providing technological solutions to societal challenges, particularly in finance, entrepreneurship and employment.

NMB Bank’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Mr Emmanuel Akonaay, highlighted that the agreement underscores the bank’s ongoing commitment to advancing education, innovation and technological progress.

“Today, we’re not just signing an agreement; we’re building a solid foundation for technological growth in the country. “We believe sustainable development depends on enhancing human resources’ knowledge and skills to adapt to significant technological changes,” he said.

Through this partnership, NMB Bank is committed to nurturing diverse ICT talents to develop skilled professionals who will tackle various financial challenges.

Mr Akonaay also noted that the agreement will leverage research conducted by NM-AIST students, particularly those focused on addressing financial issues faced by citizens.

He also mentioned that graduates will have opportunities for hands-on training within the institution and to test their technological innovations, particularly in the financial sector.

“Our goal is to advance technologies that foster entrepreneurship, address financial sector challenges and create employment opportunities for youth, both through hiring and self-employment. We are committed to developing talent in digital technologies while supporting research and innovation,” he said.

NM-AIST’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Maulilio Kipanyula, expressed gratitude to NMB for supporting students and graduates, emphasising that it would greatly impact the education sector, particularly for talented youth in technology and ICT.

“Our institution is dedicated to postgraduate education and research. To achieve these goals, we need strong collaboration with stakeholders and we are grateful to NMB Bank for helping make this possible,” he said.

He emphasised that the agreement focuses on developing digital technology talents, including identifying, incubating and advancing them, with NMB serving as a practical training platform.

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“We aim to equip youth with knowledge in technology and innovation, recognising it as a key opportunity to create new jobs through technology,” he explained.

NM-AIST student, Ms Erica Kimei, highlighted that a key challenge for higher education students is securing support for impactful research.

“You may invest in thorough research, but financial constraints often leave it as just paperwork. We urge higher education and financial institutions to strengthen collaborations to foster innovation, technology and research breakthroughs,” she stated.