By Ayomide Otitoju
Fidelity Bank Plc has launched the second edition of its flagship women empowerment initiative, the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 (HAP 2.0), in a renewed push to promote sustainable entrepreneurship and economic inclusion among women.
The bank said the upgraded programme builds on the success of its maiden edition in 2023 and is structured to equip participants with practical, income-generating skills while providing clear pathways to business ownership.
Speaking at a media briefing to announce the launch, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, explained that the initiative has been enhanced following feedback from participants and partners in the first cohort.
According to Ede, HAP 2.0 underscores the bank’s commitment to continuous improvement and inclusive economic growth.
“HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 reflects our commitment to continuous improvement. Having evaluated feedback from the first edition, we have returned with stronger partnerships and deeper mentorship programmes to ensure that women acquire not just skills, but sustainable economic opportunities,” he said.
He noted that the programme will emphasise guided, hands-on learning, with participants undergoing intensive apprenticeship training under reputable institutions and industry experts. Selected focus areas include hair styling, shoe making, auto mechatronics and interior decoration.
Beyond technical skills acquisition, the bank said the programme will provide business advisory support, including financial literacy training, structured mentorship throughout the apprenticeship period, access to women-focused and SME financial solutions, and guidance on business formalisation and growth strategies.
Ede added that the initiative is designed to position women as future employers and economic drivers within their communities.
“By integrating structured mentorship with entrepreneurial development, Fidelity Bank is positioning women not just as trainees, but as future employers, innovators and economic contributors within their communities. This aligns with our mandate to help individuals grow, businesses thrive and economies prosper,” he said.
Interested applicants have been advised to register through the programme’s dedicated online portal.
Fidelity Bank serves more than 10 million customers through its digital banking platforms, 255 business offices nationwide, and its United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The lender has received several local and international awards for excellence in digital transformation, MSME banking, mobile banking innovation, investment banking services, SME banking and export financing.
