Bengaluru, Dec 16 (Reporter) Manipal Academy of BFSI (MABFSI), a premier learning solutions provider for the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector, partnered with Axis Bank to launch the Women’s-Only Cohort of the Axis Bank Young Bankers program here on Monday. The Axis Bank Young Bankers Program, a longstanding collaboration between Axis Bank and MABFSI, has trained over 16,000 graduates over 12 years. This latest initiative is a significant step forward in promoting gender diversity, with the women-only cohort boosting female representation in the program to 38% for FY 2024-25, up from 31% in previous years. Currently, 700 women are enrolled in the program. MABFSI and Axis Bank have introduced continuous assessments and tailored interventions to ensure the program's effectiveness. Workshops on gender sensitisation, stress management, and career development further enrich the learning experience, preparing participants for a seamless transition into the workforce. Aatash Shah, Senior Vice President & Head - Business, Manipal Academy of BFSI, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, "This initiative empowers young women with industry-relevant skills to excel in the banking sector, ensuring they are prepared to thrive in their careers." Rajkamal Vempati highlighted Axis Bank's focus on retaining women in the workforce, sharing that 24% of participants are married and 44% are over the age of 25. She noted, "These young women bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Axis Bank remains committed to nurturing talent through comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and a supportive environment." The one-year Axis Bank Young Bankers program includes four months of classroom training at MABFSI Bengaluru, a three-month internship at Axis Bank branches across India, and five months of on-the-job training. Graduates receive a Post Graduate Diploma in Banking Services from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel in the BFSI industry. Axis Bank aims to achieve 50% diversity in upcoming program batches, reinforcing its commitment to gender equality. Manipal Academy of BFSI, a part of UNext Learning and the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), specialises in industry-focused education and training for BFSI professionals. Since 2008, it has trained over 200,000 professionals and partners with more than 50 leading financial institutions. Annually, MABFSI trains over 15,000 BFSI professionals, addressing both traditional and emerging roles in the sector...////...