Baiduri Bank welcomed the fourth cohort of apprentices to its Graduate Apprenticeship Programme (GAP) at the Atrium of Baiduri Bank Headquarters on Wednesday.
The bank has signed up 11 apprentices who have academic backgrounds that range from law, engineering, human resources and economics, and they will begin their six-month programme with the bank from May 13.
Baiduri Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ti Eng Hui and Head of Group Human Resources and Administration Veronica Chong as well as other members of the bank’s management committee, heads of departments and families of the incoming apprentices were present.
GAP represents the bank’s comprehensive learning and development initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry as well as provides fresh graduates an opportunity to acquire relevant knowledge, practical skills, and on-the-job experience to enhance their employability in the local job market.
The programme comprises two main components: classroom learning and experiential learning through work attachments and project assignments within the bank.
Thus far, the programme has welcomed a total of 48 apprentices, with approximately 70 per cent of those from the previous three cycles having been employed by the Baiduri Bank Group within departments such as Corporate Banking, Retail Banking Division, Baiduri Finance, and Group Human Resources.
This year’s cohort will also be witnessing a special milestone as the bank is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
The bank’s CEO said in his opening remarks: “For 30 years, Baiduri Bank has been at the forefront of Brunei’s economic growth and innovation. As we celebrate this significant milestone, the GAP stands as a testament to our enduring commitment to developing a skilled and educated workforce, aligned with the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.”
Over the next few months, apprentices will engage in classroom learning activities, gaining comprehensive knowledge of various financial products and services from experienced professionals, while also contributing to the bank’s innovative work in the financial industry.
During the remainder of the programme, apprentices will receive hands-on experience in various key business units through on-the-job training within the bank. They will also have the opportunity to participate in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and lead health and wellness activities under Baiduri Bank’s Employee Wellness Initiative (EWI).
On completion of the six-month programme, apprentices will have the option to apply for suitable vacancies within Baiduri Bank Group or pursue career opportunities with other organisations in the industry.
