The foundation course will equip over 3,000 employees with vital data and soft skills
United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd (UOB) launched a holistic learning and development program, titled ‘Better U’, to equip its 3,000-strong workforce with vital soft as well as digital skills.
Almost all the modules are digital so that employees can embark on their learning journeys at their own convenience.
Through a 12-week foundation course, all UOB Malaysia employees will complete modules aimed at encouraging a growth mindset and developing complex problem solving skills. They will also get to acquire 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, the 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.
Lai Tak Ming, Executive Director and Country Head of Human Resources at UOB Malaysia, said that the Better U programme is part of the bank’s long term approach to nurturing talent and to empowering its people through L&D.
Employees will be awarded a ‘certificate of achievement’ upon completion of the foundation course. They will also be able to pursue specialised learning tracks or educational opportunities that are aligned with their capabilities and interests.
Following that, they can apply for a sponsorship from the bank to advance their education up to a master’s degree.
“New technologies will continue to impact the way in which banking solutions are designed, developed and delivered,” said Lai. “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 program, 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.”
UOB’s Better U program is a training initiative that covers soft skills as well as digital and data skills. The program 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.
The program was first launched in Singapore in October 2019.
