The University of Malta, together with the International Factors Group (IFG) and FIMBank plc, has announced preparations for a new intake of students for the Certificate of Finance in International Trade. This unique international programme is the first university-certified specialist programme focusing on trade finance, and aims to introduce participants to the world of international trade, logistics, trade supply chain management, asset based lending and trade finance. It also incorporates the IFG Academy Week, which is the only truly international comprehensive and integrated course on the theory and practice of factoring and commercial finance. The four-week curriculum, which will be held at FIMBank's head office in St Julian's, is designed to provide international participants with a wide range of competencies that will enable them to further their career in the corporate world.
University of Malta Rector, Prof. Juanito Camilleri, stated: "We are proud to be associated with the IFG and FIMBank in the formulation of this unique initiative. We are confident that this certificate programme, now in its second year, will continue to provide a sound framework for those wishing to pursue further study or seek a career in the field of trade finance. With 144 contact hours with professors, bankers and practitioners, this programme will offer current and prospective trade finance professionals from all over the world with an exceptional educational experience - both theoretical and practical."
Erik Timmermans, Secretary General of the IFG, confirmed the Association's enthusiasm for the programme and reiterated the significance of the decision to embed the IFG's existing Academy programme in this certificate course. "As expected, this development has added tremendous value to the course, since successful participants have the option to either enroll in our Academy Week or else follow the full four-week programme and achieve an EU accredited qualification in both instances."
FIMBank President Margrith Lutschg-Emmenegger explained that FIMBank's involvement in this project stems from the bank's desire to "provide a much-needed platform from which professionals can increase their understanding of all aspects of international trade, the import and export business, logistics and trade finance, with an emphasis on the practical aspect of real-life international trade scenarios". She said that the relevance of such a course is highlighted by the fact that "career opportunities in international trade continue to grow even during periods of economic downturn and fluctuations in the business cycle, and therefore the demand for capable and experienced professionals in the field of trade finance remains high".
Applications for the second intake of the Certificate of Finance in International Trade programme are currently being accepted. For more information please visit http://www.ifgroup.com or www.um.edu.mt.