UBS launches inaugural Youth Finance Academy in Singapore
(17 June 2015 – Singapore) UBS welcomed graduates of the inaugural UBS Youth Finance Academy, a program that introduces pre-tertiary students to the world of finance and business.
UBS marked this milestone with 50 graduates from 18 pre-tertiary institutions in an inaugural graduation ceremony officiated by Edmund Koh, Country head of UBS Singapore and Ong Puay See, chief executive officer, Institute of Banking and Finance.
The inaugural UBS Youth Finance Academy was announced last September to celebrate the 50th anniversary of UBS in Asia and the 50th anniversary of Singapore.
It serves as the focal point for UBS's efforts to provide education and development opportunities to youths in Singapore and aims to inspire, increase awareness and deepen understanding on banking and finance careers and what it takes to work in this industry.
This program will also provide a glimpse into how the financial industry works through interactive sessions facilitated by UBS's subject matter experts.
Singapore's financial sector forms approximately 12 percent of Singapore's GDP, with about 1000 financial institutions performing roles in Singapore, the region and globally, employing almost 190,000 people locally.
By exposing interested students to potential banking and finance careers at the pre-tertiary level, UBS aims to strengthen the talent pipeline in Singapore and support continued growth of this sector.
Approximately 50 students will be selected to participate each year, gaining industry insights and networking opportunities through this program.
Koh said: "As Singapore continues to gain greater importance as a global financial center, it is important to nurture more young Singaporean bankers for the finance industry here and in the region.
“It is thus our plan to introduce Singapore's top pre-tertiary students to the world of finance and business, and build the Singapore core in the process.
“By giving pre-tertiary students valuable exposure to the depth and breadth of career opportunities available in the finance industry, we hope to spark their interest and encourage them to regard this sector as a potential career opportunity.
“UBS collaborates with industry partners, schools and government organizations to further plant the seed of interest, in the hope of cultivating home-grown talent that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world".
Subscribe