The first cohort of Bahrain FinTech Bay’s widely-anticipated National FinTech Talent Program (FTP) officially kicked off earlier this month. With 25 candidates on board, the inaugural edition of the program aims to set the bar higher for the Kingdom’s fast-growing FinTech ecosystem by raising a new generation of highly qualified professionals with in-depth industry insights.
Bahrain FinTech Bay (BFB) started accepting applications for FTP 1.0 earlier this year in January. Following an exhaustive selection process, the program handpicked 50 high-caliber candidates. The shortlisted candidates attended an exclusive career fair participated by 15 employers.
The fair included speed networking, as well as breakout sessions. Based on their performance, 25 candidates were selected for FinTech and innovation related internship opportunities that will continue over the next six months.
Throughout their internship period, these candidates will receive quality mentorship from BFB’s global partners. Their training will comprise of insightful practical lessons on FinTech verticals focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain. Some of the prominent BFB partners associated with the FTP program include Blockchain Academy Global, Taiger AI Academy, and SettleMint, among others.
“As the FinTech ecosystem in Bahrain and the region transforms further, the development of talent to continue and sustain such transformation is key. Initiating the region’s first National FinTech Talent Program with Tamkeen is a key step in the development of such talent,” said Khalid Saad, CEO of Bahrain FinTech Bay.
Saad added: “Through training and job placement opportunities within our partner network, we aim to develop a generation of leaders that will be able to take the industry forward and support Bahrain’s transition into a knowledge and innovation-driven economy.”
