In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, landing a job is more challenging than ever for new graduates. Having a degree is no longer enough; employers want a well-rounded candidate with technical skills, communication prowess, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and digital literacy, all backed by real-world experience.

The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Flexxtern Programme directly addresses the challenges faced by fresh graduates. It provides them with hands-on experience and opportunities to develop the essential skills for success in the 21st-century workplace.

Remarkably, internships, particularly in the financial sector, have long been recognised as a crucial stepping stone for young professionals. The Harvard Business Review notes that internships offer a mutually beneficial arrangement where companies gain fresh perspectives and young talent gains essential experience. This aligns perfectly with the goal of the Flexxtern Programme, which focuses on preparing Nigerian youth for the workforce by giving them valuable exposure to the corporate world.

Recently, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), in partnership with Insight Publicists, Digiengage Nigeria, TISV Digital, Nairametrics, Olaniwun Ajayi Law Partners, Activedge Technologies, and Signal Alliance Technology Holding, celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of interns from the Flexxtern Programme. This initiative has proven to be a powerful career launchpad for young graduates, helping bridge the gap between academia and the professional world by equipping young people with the skills and competencies they require to succeed.

“The Flexxtern programme is a platform for self-discovery and career progression,” said Yomi Adebanjo, Group Head of Human Resources at Signal Alliance Technology Holding, one of the programme’s long-term partners. “We’ve been part of this since 2021, and our experience has been remarkable. Our first Flexxtern has been employed full-time with us, and the second performed equally well. This initiative is truly an opportunity to celebrate young graduates and set them on the path to achieving their dreams.”

Since its inception in 2016, the Flexxtern programme has provided over 200 young Nigerians with invaluable work experience through internships at reputable organisations. Designed for individuals aged 18 to 30, the initiative has become a gateway for launching careers across diverse industries. With each new season, the programme expands in scope and impact as more companies join the mission to empower Nigeria’s next generation of professionals.

“The Flexxterns deployed to us have significantly impacted our organisation,” said Olawale Ayuba, Vice President of GRC and Enterprise Fraud at ActiveEdge Technologies. “Their contributions have been key to our success, and we are eager to continue this partnership to create more life-changing opportunities for youth.”

The role of financial institutions in this area is crucial. As the Financial Times has noted, “Banks and financial institutions have a unique position in driving youth empowerment through internships, particularly by exposing interns to diverse roles that help build well-rounded professionals.” The Flexxtern Programme leverages this strength by placing interns in various departments and with partner organisations, giving them a comprehensive view of different sectors’ operations.

Also speaking, Ifeoluwa Adeyemo of Insight Publicis said: “The partnership has been a wonderful and impactful experience. The Flexxterns that have come to us are nothing short of great. We have some of them still working with us. We are committed to ensuring this partnership grows and achieves the desired results.”

During the graduation ceremony, Diran Olojo, Group Head of Corporate Affairs, FCMB, highlighted the bank’s ongoing commitment to preparing young Nigerians for the future of work. “At FCMB, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for young people to gain the skills necessary for success. The Flexxtern programme reflects our commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders by offering them mentorship, real-world training, and hands-on experience.”

The programme’s impact is evident in the success stories of the graduates. Many have secured full-time employment, while others have used the skills gained to launch their entrepreneurial ventures. Through such initiatives, Nigeria can address the challenges of youth unemployment, contributing to the broader goal of economic growth.

The importance of initiatives like Flexxtern is also underscored by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG Goal 8, which promotes “decent work and economic growth,” specifically highlights the need for youth empowerment through education, skill development, and work opportunities such as internships. By providing real-world experience and skill-building opportunities, FCMB’s Flexxtern initiative aligns with this global goal, creating pathways for youth to secure meaningful employment.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of an evolving job market, partnerships between the private sector and educational institutions are crucial. By collaborating with industry leaders, initiatives like Flexxtern ensure young Nigerians have the skills and experience to compete locally and globally.

In a time when opportunities can feel limited, the Flexxtern initiative proves that with the proper support, mentorship, and experience, the youth of Nigeria can rise to any challenge. As more organisations join forces with educational initiatives, we can hope for a future where Nigeria’s youth are prepared and empowered to lead in their chosen careers.