Absa Seychelles empowers young minds through immersive financial literacy open day |09 April 2026

In observance of Global Money Week, under the global theme for 2026 ‘Smart Money Talks’, Absa Bank Seychelles hosted an immersive financial literacy open day on Tuesday March 31. The workshop brought together secondary school students for a day of learning and dialogue focused on developing lifelong smart‑money skills.

The open day welcomed eager students from Mont Fleuri, Plaisance, English River, Persévérance, and Belonie secondary schools, creating a collaborative learning environment for engagement and knowledge sharing.

Why understanding money early matters

The day began with an opening address by Nazim Mahmood, managing director of Absa Seychelles, who set the tone by taking students back to the fundamentals of money. In his remarks, he reflected on the origins and purpose of money, how banks function within the local economy, and the importance of developing sound saving habits from a young age.

 He emphasised how responsible budgeting and disciplined saving can unlock opportunities – from education and entrepreneurship pathways to long‑term financial security and investment — empowering students to start thinking about how to shape their own futures.

 Speaking on the initiative, Nazim Mahmood added that the open day reflects Absa’s long‑standing commitment to advancing financial inclusion and education, particularly among young people.

 “We believe that confidence in using money should not start only when you are able to open a bank account at 18 years old,” said Mr Mahmood. “By engaging young people early and exposing them to real‑world financial concepts such as saving, budgeting and responsible use of digital banking, we are helping them build the skills, mindset and confidence needed to participate meaningfully in our economy.”

Practical insights into banking and money management

Following the opening session, students took part in a programme delivered by Absa subject‑matter experts, offering practical insights into the different dimensions of banking and money management.

 The morning sessions included an overview of retail banking products and services, with a strong focus on digital banking solutions and how technology is transforming the way customers manage their finances. This was followed by an interactive discussion on marketing, branding, and sponsorships, providing students with insight into how financial institutions communicate with customers, build trust, and invest in community and youth development initiatives.

A roundtable open discussion with Absa’s executive team

In the afternoon, the programme shifted to executive‑level engagement through a dialogue with the Absa executive committee. Students explored fintech innovation and emerging financial trends with Absa’s commercial director, Vincent Otim, gaining exposure to how modern technology is reshaping financial services and creating new career pathways within the sector.

An additional executive session with chief operating officer, Annarita Stravens, offered a behind‑the‑scenes look at bank operations, demystifying how different functions come together to ensure a seamless, secure and customer‑focused banking experience. This open dialogue encouraged students to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the scale, complexity, and responsibility involved in running a financial institution.

Being future-ready and the launch of the ElevateHer AI programme

To close off the workshop, the day concluded with a cybersecurity and service technology session, highlighting the importance of digital safety, responsible online behaviour and protecting personal financial information. This session also included the introduction and official launch of the ElevateHer programme.

 Absa, in collaboration with Microsoft and Women in Tech, is introducing free AI programmes with a shared ambition to equip 50,000 women across the continent with future ready AI capabilities.

 The ElevateHer in Africa Programme offers three self-paced learning pathways:

• AI for all: A foundational pathway introducing the basics of AI, helping those taking part understand how AI works, its real world impact, and the importance of responsible and ethical AI.
• AI for business: Designed for entrepreneurs, leaders and policymakers, this pathway focuses on using AI tools and strategies to drive smarter decision making, streamline operations and spark innovation.
• AI for career growth: A pathway supporting individuals entering the job market or seeking career advancement, equipping participants to enhance their professional profiles and demonstrate effective leadership in an AI driven workplace.

Through this initiative, Absa continues to live its purpose of “empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together, one story at a time.”

“There is growing excitement about what AI can do, but uncertainty remains about how to use it effectively. The ElevateHer programme bridges this gap by equipping delegates with practical skills, knowledge, and confidence to apply AI responsibly and creatively in their work. We are proud to support this initiative as part of our commitment to empowering people across Seychelles and investing in future ready skills that will help everyone thrive in a digital first world,” said Nazim Mahmood, managing director, Absa Bank Seychelles.

Through initiatives such as the financial literacy open day, Absa Seychelles continues to invest in the next generation.

About Absa Group Limited

Absa Group Limited (‘Absa Group’) is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and is one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services groups.

Absa Group offers an integrated set of products and services across personal and business banking, corporate and investment banking, wealth and investment management and insurance.

Absa Group owns majority stakes in banks in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania (Absa Bank Tanzania and National Bank of Commerce), Uganda and Zambia and has insurance operations in Kenya and South Africa. Absa also has representative offices in the People’s Republic of China, Namibia, Nigeria and the United States, as well as securities entities in the United Kingdom and the United States, along with technology support colleagues in the Czech Republic.

For further information about Absa Group Limited, visit www.absa.africa