CIB Ghana inducts 237 banking professionals, achieves gender parity
The Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB) Ghana has inducted 237 new professionals, marking a significant milestone in the institute’s history.
This year’s induction ceremony was notable for achieving gender parity, with women making up 51% of the new inductees.
The event saw First Bank Ghana’s Managing Director and CEO, Victor Yaw Asante, as the Special Guest of Honour. Asante heralded the depth, diversity, and quality of the new professionals while emphasizing the importance of ethics, sustainability, and professionalism in the banking sector, consistent with this year’s theme: “Ethics, Sustainability, and Professionalism.”
In his address to the newly inducted members, Asante highlighted that these values are essential for building a robust and credible banking environment. “Ethics builds trust and credibility, which are essential for long-term success,” he stated. He recounted his own career, which has been guided by a commitment to integrity and transparency, and urged the new inductees to adhere to ethical behavior to safeguard their institutions and careers. Drawing from his experience with Rotary International, where ethics is a core pillar, Asante encouraged the new bankers to adopt principles such as truthfulness, fairness, goodwill, and beneficial actions.
Asante also stressed the importance of respect and fairness in dealings with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders as crucial elements for maintaining a trustworthy and reputable banking environment. He reminded the inductees that ethical conduct is non-negotiable, especially given past ethical lapses that led to a financial sector clean-up in the country.
Additionally, Asante underscored the necessity of sustainable practices in modern banking. “Sustainability is about ensuring that our banking practices contribute positively to the lives and livelihoods of people, the planet, and profit,” he said. He urged the inductees to integrate sustainable practices into their professional lives, emphasizing that such commitment drives innovation, customer loyalty, and financial stability. Sustainable banking practices, he noted, ensure current prosperity while protecting the interests of future generations.
Professionalism was another key focus of Asante’s address. He defined professionalism as encompassing integrity, competence, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. He encouraged the new inductees to continually seek to enhance their knowledge and skills to better serve their clients and the wider community. “Excellence is not a destination but a journey, and it requires deliberate and relentless dedication,” he noted.
Beyond professional achievements, Asante highlighted the importance of community involvement. Reflecting on his two-decade membership in Rotary International and his role as a Rotary International District Governor, he spoke of the profound fulfillment derived from service and volunteerism. He urged the new inductees to engage in community service, emphasizing that giving back to society enriches their lives and strengthens communities.
The CEO of CIB Ghana, Robert Dzato, also addressed the audience, highlighting the Institute’s commitment to enhancing the banking profession through innovative certifications and programs. He mentioned the revamped Chartered Banker curriculum, the new Chartered Banker for Executive Leadership (CBEL) Programme, an Ethics Certification with the Bank of Ghana, and an ESG certification with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These initiatives aim to foster a competent and ethical workforce, with tailored programs like the Banking Academy and a new Banking Operations Certification for rural and community banks addressing specific industry needs.
Dzato emphasized the importance of mentorship and professional development. Upcoming mentorship and internship programs, along with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses in artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital banking, and cybersecurity, further support the professional growth of banking professionals. Addressing the new inductees, Dzato stated, “Remember, the knowledge and skills you possess are not just tools for personal success. They are instruments for shaping a more ethical, responsible, and sustainable future. Africa needs trusted professionals who are competent and ethical. Be the voice of professionalism and ethics.”
Among the notable inductees were Enoch Amoh Berchie, specializing in the law relating to banking at Amenfiman Rural Bank Plc; Dorcas Asantewaa Addo, excelling in management practices at GCB Bank Plc and recognized as the youngest graduand; and Amanda Serwa Minkah, who focuses on the monetary and financial systems at GCB Bank Plc and achieved the distinction of being the Overall Best Inductee.
Other distinguished inductees included Ebenezer Yawson, specializing in financial reporting, planning & analysis at Otuasekan Rural Bank Plc; Jehoshaphat Yayah Hassan, specializing in bank strategic information management at Access Bank Ghana Plc; Ebenezer Oppong, an expert in international trade finance at Agricultural Development Bank; Stephen Kakraba Kotah, excelling in strategic marketing management at CalBank Plc; Michael Terkpetey Narh, specializing in corporate banking – law & practice at Zenith Bank Ghana Limited; Evans Nyarko Narh, focusing on risk management at CalBank Plc; and Vida Kuwornu, specializing in the practice of banking – law & practice at GCB Bank Plc.
This induction ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of these banking professionals but also reinforced the critical role of ethics, sustainability, and professionalism in shaping the future of banking in Ghana.
