Access Bank Botswana is proud to announce the launch of its first Graduate Programme, a bold step forward in the Bank’s commitment to nurturing local talent and building a future-ready workforce. More than just a training initiative, the programme is designed to transition high-potential graduates into full-time roles within the Bank across a variety of departments.
Launched in late 2024, the programme began with a competitive selection process that identified eleven promising graduates. These individuals took part in an intensive six-month development journey, including three months of classroom-based training at Access Bank Group’s training centre in Nigeria and three months of rotational placements at Access Bank Botswana. During this phase, participants were introduced to a range of topics including customer service, financial principles, digital banking and leadership skills. The second half of the programme is now underway in Botswana, where participants are rotating through various departments across the Bank’s operations to apply their learning in real-life settings.
Now, as the training phase concludes, each of the graduates is being absorbed into the Bank on a full-time basis. Over the next 24 months, they will continue to gain exposure across multiple departments, working directly with teams in areas such as Retail Banking, Corporate Banking, Risk and Compliance, Operations, Digital Channels and more. The aim is to build broad-based understanding of the business, while helping each graduate discover where their strengths and passions align.
Speaking on the programme, Shepherd Aisam, Managing Director of Access Bank Botswana, said, “This graduate programme is about creating real employment opportunities for Botswana’s young people and preparing them to lead. By fully integrating these graduates into our business, we are investing in their future and strengthening our own capacity to grow, innovate and serve our customers better.”
Njalakangwa Ndzinge, Head of Human Resources, added, “From day one, our goal was to identify talent we could retain and grow within the organisation. These young professionals have shown they are ready to step up. Over the next two years, they will not only build practical skills, but also help us shape a more dynamic and inclusive culture.”
The Access Bank Botswana Graduate Programme is part of the Bank’s broader strategy to grow a pipeline of future leaders, enhance local capabilities and support national goals around youth employment. By integrating learning, mentorship and long-term career pathways, the programme sets a strong foundation for both the participants and the Bank.