OPI Bank has unveiled its first nationwide “Future Leaders” Internship Program, aimed at empowering Iraqi university students and fresh graduates with real-world banking experience, leadership skills, and career development opportunities.

The program, which officially launched this week, will welcome over 300 interns across Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, and Mosul. Participants will engage in hands-on training across various departments including retail banking, risk management, digital banking innovation, and customer service.

“We believe that the future of Iraq’s banking sector lies in the hands of the next generation,” said Ms. Rana Al-Jubouri, Head of Human Resources at OPI Bank. “Through the Future Leaders Program, we aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional skills, while nurturing young talents to become tomorrow’s financial experts.”

Each participant will receive:

• A three-month paid internship

• One-on-one mentorship with senior bank leaders

• Certification upon completion

• Priority consideration for future full-time positions

OPI Bank’s initiative aligns with Iraq’s national efforts to reduce youth unemployment and build a knowledge-driven economy. Applications for the next intake of the program will open in July 2025.