UOB Malaysia launches 12-week L&D programme to hone five core competencies

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) (UOB Malaysia) has launched a holistic learning and development programme, to help its more than 3,000 employees build successful careers in the digital age. The programme, titled 'Better U', was first launched in Singapore in October 2019.

In a press release, the bank called this programme a reaffirmation of its long-term commitment to provide employees with meaningful careers and to support them in their development journey.

It is also part of the bank's long-term approach to nurturing talent and to empowering its people through learning and development, Lai Tak Ming, Executive Director and Country Head of Human Resources, UOB Malaysia, added.

"New technologies will continue to impact the way in which banking solutions are designed, developed and delivered. As such, we want to prepare our people not only for the industry's needs today but for the future as well. Through the Better U holistic development programme, our people will be equipped with both the skills needed to navigate the future demands of work and be empowered to build successful, long-term careers."

A programme that hones a growth mindset, complex problem-solving skills, and more

UOB's Better U programme is a training initiative that covers soft skills as well as digital and data skills. Through a 12-week foundation course, all UOB Malaysia employees will complete modules aimed at honing five core competencies - a growth mindset, complex problem-solving skills, and skills in the fields of digital innovation, human-centred design, and data story-telling.

These five core competencies, which form the bases for future learning and employability, will enable employees to decide with greater certainty which routes of continued learning and technical specialisation they would like to take.

To cultivate a habit of continual learning among its employees, the 12-week course is designed using behavioural science insights and training best practices. For example, many modules have been designed as games or interactive team-based formats for a more engaging learning experience. Almost all the modules are digital so that employees can embark on their learning journeys at their own convenience.

The programme is accredited by the Institute of Banking and Finance Singapore (IBF), an industry association that fosters and develops the professional competencies of the financial industry. UOB Malaysia employees will be awarded a UOB-IBF Certificate of Achievement upon completion of the foundation course, and will be able to pursue specialised learning tracks or educational opportunities that align with their capabilities and interests.

Employees will also be able to apply for sponsorship from the bank to advance their education up to a Master's degree.

For employees who may be unsure of which area to specialise in, they can opt for one of two progression pathways - in the areas of data management, and project management; the bank will continue to expand the range of specialised learning tracks over the next three years.

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