I&M Bank commits to stronger partnerships for educational innovation

A Night of Vision and Collaboration for the Future of Education

Education leaders, innovators, and financial partners came together at the I&M Bank EduFinance Dinner on August 14 at Ubumwe Grande Hotel. The event, held under the theme “Education, Innovation and the Future of Learning,” aimed to explore how financial solutions, technology, and collaborative partnerships can transform learning outcomes across Rwanda and beyond. Attendees included school owners, teachers, technology developers, and banking executives, all united by a shared vision for reimagining education in a rapidly changing world.

I&M Bank CEO Benjamin Mutimura emphasized the pivotal role of education in driving economic growth and societal transformation. He outlined the bank’s commitment to empowering teachers, students, and its own staff through substantial resources. “The impact of education on economic growth is twofold: it increases productivity and drives innovation,” he said. “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.”

Mutimura also highlighted the bank’s internal initiatives, such as the I&M Academy, which trains the bankers of tomorrow. He secured board approval to invest three percent of the bank’s profits into staff training and another three percent into the I&M Foundation to benefit society. “Our commitment starts with our own staff before reaching out to the broader community,” he added.

Supporting teachers was another key focus of the discussion. Mutimura stated that educators deserve access to essential resources like reliable internet, good computers, libraries, and decent housing. “At I&M Bank, we are that partner to help achieve these goals,” he said. He described the current global environment as BINA—brittle, fragile, non-linear, and unpredictable—and stressed that education is the way to prepare people for such challenges.

Dr. Benjamin Djoudalbaye, a health and education expert, praised Rwanda’s reforms for demonstrating how vision, commitment, and collaboration can transform education. “When education thrives, society prospers. This is not just theory—it is a mission I&M Bank is committed to fulfilling,” he said.

Yves Kayihura, Head of Retail Banking at I&M Bank, presented the institution’s innovative financial solutions aimed at transforming education. He introduced technology-driven tools, flexible financing options, and strategic school partnerships. These include a digital payment system allowing 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,” he explained.

For parents, the bank offers flexible loan solutions to pay school fees in installments at a competitive interest rate, ensuring no child misses out on education. Additionally, the bank provides loans up to Rwf50 million without security and long-term housing loans repayable over 30 years through its partnership with BRD. Through initiatives like Ryoshya Iwawe, I&M offers zero-interest loans for six months.

Jean-Pierre Kibuye, Director of Blue Lakes International School, highlighted how I&M Bank’s commitment extends beyond financial services. “Education is more than the transfer of knowledge; it is the shaping of the future, the unlocking of potential, and the building of nations,” he said. “In today’s fast-changing world, innovation in education is a necessity, not a luxury.”

Kibuye also praised the bank’s support during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. “Banking with I&M was the best decision I’ve made in my career. During hard times, they provided support that helped me regain confidence and hope for the future.”

Dr. Benjamin Djoudalbaye, Head of the Interim Secretariat of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), emphasized the critical role of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of education. He stressed 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,” he said. “Traditional models alone cannot equip young people for today’s dynamic global environment.”

He concluded by highlighting the importance of shared vision and collaboration. “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.”