Nepal Bankers’ Association (NBA), in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Financial Literacy Nepal (FLN), organized a capacity-building program in Biratnagar, focusing on contemporary banking challenges and financial literacy. The program centered on three key areas: Digital Financial Services, Capital Market and Current Issues and Financial Literacy. The program aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of Nepal’s evolving digital finance landscape, address pressing issues impacting banks and capital markets, and underscore the pivotal role of financial literacy in tackling these challenges effectively.
Delivering the opening remarks, Mr. Ashim Nepal, Operations Officer at IFC, outlined the program’s objectives. He underscored the necessity and importance of enhancing digital financial literacy to improve both the accessibility and security of digital financial services and their critical role in fostering an inclusive and secure financial ecosystem.
During the program, NBA Senior Officer, Mr. Kapil Gautam, delivered a presentation titled “Digitally Empowered Employees – Knowing Your Digital Payments” covering digital payment products, digital lending, cross-border transactions, financial inclusion and consumer protection. He also underscored the increasing risks of cyber fraud and the need for consumer education to prevent fraud and ensure user safety in the digital space.
Former Executive Director of the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON), Mr. Niraj Giri, provided a comprehensive overview of the securities market, covering its legal framework, operational mechanisms, current trends, investment strategies, and risk management. The presentation offered valuable insights to help participants navigate the complexities of the securities sector.
Former NBA President, Mr. Bhuvan Dahal, delivered a presentation incorporating key challenges within the banking and financial sectors, including public perception of the industry and the factors driving negative sentiments. Using data, facts and evidence, Mr. Dahal clarified common myths and misconceptions, reaffirming that Nepal’s banking sector remains stable, resilient, and well-regulated under the prudent oversight of the Central Bank. Mr. Dahal also emphasized the critical role of financial literacy in building trust and raising awareness among customers, encouraging banking officials to prioritize these efforts in their daily interactions.
The program’s Chief Guest, Former Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, Dr. Chiranjibi Nepal, shared invaluable insights into addressing policy-level challenges in Nepal’s financial sector. He highlighted key considerations for policymakers to keep in mind when drafting effective policies. Drawing from his vast experience, Dr. Nepal emphasized that successful implementation is just as critical as thoughtful policy design in achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
Delivering the closing remarks, Mr. Sulav Hari Joshi, Coordinator of NBA Koshi Province Committee, expressed his sincere appreciation to all participants and resource persons for their invaluable contributions. He emphasized the importance of implementing the insights gained during the program and highlighted the need for continuing capacity-building initiatives to empower banking professionals. The program was attended by over 40 officials from various commercial banks
