Held in its fifth year in collaboration with DIFC Innovation Hub, Warba Bank’s flagship Rowad 5.0 program continues to empower Kuwaiti youth by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive innovation and achieve success in their professional lives, solidifying the Bank's commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders and innovators.
Speaking on the program’s success, Anwar Bader Al-Ghaith, Deputy CEO of Support Services and Treasury at Warba Bank, said: "The Rowad 5.0 Program has cemented its place as a milestone initiative in Kuwait, consistently graduating talented students who stand out as global innovators. These students are now equipped with essential skills and knowledge, enabling them to address today's challenges and contribute to Kuwait's economy by creating innovative products and solutions that bridge gaps in society."
Al-Ghaith added: “Warba Bank is committed to youth development. We firmly believe that they are the foundation of progress and the future of our nation. Through Rowad, we provide a comprehensive educational platform in collaboration with esteemed partners like DIFC Innovation Hub. The program is designed to address global market trends, with a special focus on artificial intelligence and advanced technologies."
Al-Ghaith emphasized that the Rowad 5.0 Program focuses on enhancing creativity and nurturing the innovative potential of young talents through educational programs and workshops that invest in the human capital, paving the way for a generation capable of driving transformation and excellence in Kuwait.
The program, launched on October 13, 2024, spans six weeks, during which participants work with experts from Warba Bank and DIFC Innovation Hub to develop smart solutions tailored to market needs.
Targeting Kuwaiti students enrolled in UK universities, the Rowad Program offers a dynamic learning environment that blends practical experience with academic knowledge. Participants engage in activities designed to contribute to the development of banking solutions in a cooperative environment that provides theoretical and real experiences.
With the first four weeks of phase one coming to an end, Rowad 5.0 is transitioning into its advanced stages, where participants will concentrate on developing solutions tailored to the banking needs. Warba Bank remains committed to fostering their growth and equipping them with the skills required to meet future challenges effectively.
This year, 18 Kuwaiti students are participating in the pogram in the United Kingdom. The students include: Firas Al-Sallal, Abdulwahab Al-Rashed, Zamel Al-Zamel, Yousef Al-Essa, Bader Al-Enezi, Ahmed Juma, Yousef Al-Aqeel, Abdullah Al-Munaikh, Abdulmohsen Al-Zanki, Khalil Al-Najem, Maryam Ahmad, Abdul Aziz Al-Zanki, Suleiman Al-Mukhaizeem, Fahad Al-Abdulrazzaq, Abdullah Al-Wazzan, Bader Al-Saeed, Khaled Al-Mazidi, and Mohammed Al-Daihani.
Sharing his experience, participant Bader Al-Enezi, a cybersecurity student at the University of Manchester, said: "The Rowad Program has opened doors for me to explore the interconnectedness of technology and innovation, especially in the field of artificial intelligence. Collaborating with team members from diverse disciplines has been an enriching experience that will undoubtedly benefit my career. I encourage students to seize this opportunity to enhance their teamwork skills, explore advanced technologies, and embrace innovation."
Fellow participant Mohammed Al-Daihani, a business administration student at the University of Manchester, highlighted: "Rowad goes beyond acquiring knowledge; it fosters ethical and responsible innovation. The program has enhanced my communication skills and prepared me for professional growth. For anyone looking to elevate their career prospects and gain hands-on experience, Rowad offers unparalleled opportunities with robust support from Warba Bank and DIFC Innovation Hub."
Warba Bank has recently been recognized with prestigious recognitions, including The Most Sustainable Bank and Best Islamic Digital Services Provider in Kuwait 2024 by International Business Magazine. The Bank was also honored by "Network International" for its leadership in digital innovation and by Mastercard for achieving the highest growth in activating digital credit cards in Kuwait.
Through programs like Rowad, Warba Bank continues to exemplify its dedication to supporting innovation, education, and the next generation of leaders, reaffirming its role as a pioneer in Islamic digital banking.