BIBF launches three new programmes
Larona Makhaiza | Monday May 18, 2026 15:32
Speaking at the launch, BIBF Director of Academics Bakani Thothe said the programmes were developed in direct response to industry needs and are designed to produce graduates ready to meet the practical demands of the financial services sector.
“We are launching three programmes beginning this month,' Thothe said.
The programmes are a Degree in International Banking and Finance, a Postgraduate Certificate in Forensic Accounting and Financial Investigation, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Banking and Financial Services.
On the degree programme, the institution said it is targeted at aspiring banking and finance professionals, including school leavers and those already in the sector seeking to upgrade their qualifications.
“This qualification is designed for aspiring banking and finance professionals. We deliberately and intentionally designed ours in a manner that will serve our first customer, who is the banking industry, as well as the finance sector as a whole,” he said.
The representative said the programme will equip students with skills in banking operations, compliance, risk management, credit analysis, financial technologies and ethics.
“Our intention is to have a well-rounded and competent graduate who is theoretically grounded and can apply theory and practice in the real world of banking and financial contexts,” he said.
The institution also highlighted that the degree will be offered on both a full-time and a part-time basis to cater for working professionals.
“We have not forgotten our diploma and associate diploma graduates. We want them to upgrade to a degree, and this qualification comes to address that gap,” Thothe said.
On the postgraduate certificate in forensic accounting and financial investigation, BIBF said the programme comes at a critical time when financial crimes are becoming increasingly prevalent.
“This qualification is designed for graduates and professionals who seek to pursue or advance a career in forensic accounting, fraud examination, and financial investigation,” he said.
The programme will be delivered through block release over one year to allow working professionals to study whilst remaining employed.
Meanwhile, the six-month postgraduate certificate in banking and financial services is designed for graduates with no prior banking background.
“This qualification is meant specifically for graduates entering banking. It gives them the foundation they need to hit the ground running in any banking environment,” Thothe said.
BIBF also called on banks to support the initiative through internships and practical teaching.
“In the next two to three years, our students will need internships. We are also going to need experienced bank practitioners to come into class and teach the practicality that we need,” he said.