Education leaders, innovators and financial partners gathered for the I&M Bank EduFinance Dinner, an evening dedicated to reimagining how education can better prepare young people for a fast-changing world on August 14, at Ubumwe Grande Hotel. Held under the theme ‘Education, Innovation and the Future of Learning,’ the event brought together school owners, teachers, technology developers and banking executives to explore how financial solutions, technology, and collaborative partnerships can transform learning outcomes across Rwanda and beyond. ALSO READ: I&M Bank Rwanda records Rwf5.4 bn profit after tax in first quarter of 2025 I&M Bank CEO Benjamin Mutimura, highlighted the pivotal role education plays not only in economic growth but also in societal transformation. He pledged substantial resources to empower teachers, students, and the bank's own staff, underlining that education is now a central mission of I&M Bank. “The impact of education on economic growth is twofold, it increases productivity and drives innovation. As we evolve from traditional banking, our focus is no longer just profit. We aim to positively impact people and the planet, with a goal of touching two million lives over the next two years,” he said. “We began internally by creating I&M Academy to train the bankers of tomorrow. Our commitment starts with our own staff before reaching out to the broader community. I secured board approval to invest three per cent of our profit into staff training, and another three per cent into the I&M Foundation to benefit society.” ALSO READ: I&M Bank (Rwanda) Plc launches EduFinance program-me Mutimura also said that supporting teachers is key. “They deserve access to resources like reliable internet, good computers, libraries, and decent housing. At I&M Bank, we are that partner to help achieve these goals. The world used to be described as VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous). Today, we face BINA, brittle, fragile, non-linear, and unpredictable. The way to prepare people for such a world is through education,” he said. “We pledge to be the bank of educators, innovators, and growth. We will provide affordable capital, grants where necessary, and support Dr Benjamin Djoudalbaye, a health and education expert, who said that Rwanda’s own reforms show how vision, commitment and collaboration can transform education, and initiatives that truly impact the next generation. ‘When education thrives, society prospers. This is not just theory it is a mission I&M Bank is committed to fulfilling.” Yves Kayihura, Head of Retail Banking at I&M Bank, highlighted the institution’s commitment to transforming education through innovative financial solutions. He presented technology-driven tools, flexible financing options, and strategic school partnerships aimed to offer a digital payment system that allows parents and students to pay school fees from home. “We are not only thinking about school fees. Schools can now dream bigger, investing in laboratories, student transport, and infrastructure because we provide financing solutions up to Rwf245 million without collateral. For parents, we offer flexible loan solutions to pay school fees in installments at a competitive interest rate, ensuring no child misses out on education,” he said. “Our support extends to teachers and school administrators as well, offering loans up to Rwf50 million without security and long-term housing loans repayable over 30 years through our partnership with BRD. Through initiatives like Ryoshya Iwawe, I&M provides loans at zero interest in 6 months.” Jean-Pierre Kibuye, Director of Blue Lakes International School, highlighted how I&M Bank’s commitment extends beyond financial services, empowering schools, parents, and young entrepreneurs to achieve their goals. “Education is more than the transfer of knowledge; it is the shaping of the future, the unlocking of potential, and the building of nations. In today’s fast-changing world, innovation in education is a necessity, not a luxury. The banks commitment goes beyond banking, they invest in dreams through scholarships, digital learning tools, and financial literacy programs,” he said. “Banking with I&M was the best decision I’ve made in my career. During hard times, including COVID-19, they provided support that helped me regain confidence and hope for the future. Innovation in education is not just about smart boards or coding classes; it’s about creating an ecosystem where knowledge can be applied, creativity is encouraged, and every learner has the resources to succeed. The best investment a society can make is in its people, and the earlier we start, the greater the return. Just as a bank invests for long-term growth, education invests in the leaders, thinkers, and innovators of tomorrow, Kibuye added. Dr Benjamin Djoudalbaye, Head of the Interim Secretariat of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), highlighted the critical role of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of education. He emphasized that technology, relevant curricula, and strategic partnerships are key to preparing learners for a rapidly changing world. “Innovation in education is no longer an option; it is a necessity. Traditional models alone cannot equip young people for today’s dynamic global environment. Technology is an enabler, not a replacement. Artificial intelligence will not replace humans, but we must master these tools to democratize learning effectively,” he said. “Partnerships are the catalyst. Government, private sector, educators, and communities must work together to ensure no child is left behind. The future of learning will not be defined by the tools we use but by our shared vision, where every child, regardless of background or location, can thrive, innovate, and lead.”
