Equity Bank Rwanda and the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Thursday, March 20 aimed at advancing sustainable development.
The collaboration will focus on key areas such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, agriculture, environmental conservation, and education, with a strong emphasis on empowering youth and women.
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Through this partnership, the bank aims to build the capacity of students and the broader community, contributing to the socio-economic transformation of Rwanda.
It aims to equip youth and women with entrepreneurial and financial skills, support agricultural innovation, promote sustainability initiatives, and integrate financial education into the university curriculum. Through workshops, training, and tailored financial services, the collaboration seeks to drive economic growth and social development in Rwanda.
It will provide students, staff, and graduates with access to financial products, support employment for youth and women, and foster relationships with future leaders in business, finance, and sustainability.
The MOU represents a five-year commitment, with both parties agreeing to review and nurture the partnership annually to assess its impact and effectiveness in building capacity across the key focus areas of agriculture, environment protection, education, and entrepreneurship.
Speaking about the partnership, Hannington Namara, Managing Director of Equity Bank, emphasised the bank’s dedication to both business and social impact.
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"We are pleased to collaborate with the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) so that together, we can build the society we envision.
Namara noted the bank’s dual approach, which prioritises both customer welfare and business growth.
"Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. The first engine of our work is what we call social investment, while the second focuses on business. These two engines work hand in hand.
"A portion of the money we earn from business is reinvested into initiatives that address societal challenges. When we help our customers thrive, they, in turn, contribute to economic growth, which ultimately benefits the bank," he added.
He further emphasised the university’s crucial role in national development, saying, "This is why we are eager to work together. The Catholic University of Rwanda plays a key role in the country’s progress, and we believe that by joining forces, we can make a meaningful impact on society."
Dr Laurent Ntaganda, Vice Chancellor of the Catholic University of Rwanda, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and Equity Bank’s commitment to social responsibility.
"We know that Equity Bank is not just about business; you also care about improving the lives of citizens. Hearing about the bank’s initiatives made me happy, and I am excited to work together. But more importantly, we should take action immediately—what truly defines a person is their actions."