Burgan Bank, in partnership with CODED Academy, marked the conclusion of the second edition of Academy X, an initiative aimed at fostering skills in technology entrepreneurship and AI-powered marketing among Kuwaiti youth. The program, held in 2026, aligns with Burgan Bank’s broader strategy of promoting youth empowerment, women’s development, and national talent cultivation, in support of Kuwait Vision 2035.
The 2026 Academy X featured two specialized tracks focusing on technology entrepreneurship and AI-driven marketing, incorporating applied learning methods to help participants transform innovative ideas into practical projects. The program emphasized developing competencies in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for evolving job market demands.
Hessa Hussain AlNajadah, Senior Manager of Media Relations and Social Responsibility at Burgan Bank, highlighted the institution’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility through its strategic sponsorship of the program. Over the two years of Academy X, more than 1,000 female students have graduated, acquiring skills in entrepreneurship, programming, and financial literacy. These efforts were supported by the “Let’s Be Aware” campaign, initiated by the Central Bank of Kuwait together with the Kuwait Banking Association and local banks, which promotes financial awareness, including saving, fraud prevention, and the responsible use of banking services.
Fatima Ahmed, Senior Manager for Culture and Employee Experience at Burgan Bank, credited the students’ dedication and the support of their families for the program’s success. She noted that the hands-on approach provided participants with valuable experience, enhancing their readiness for future career opportunities.
From CODED Academy, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Hashem Behbehani emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that equipping young Kuwaitis, particularly women, with technology and AI skills is crucial for advancing the country’s innovation landscape. He described the bank as a strategic partner invested in national talent and expressed optimism about expanding the impact of Academy X in coming years.
The program also integrated the “Let’s Be Aware” initiative, which aims to raise financial and banking awareness among young people, highlighting topics such as early financial planning, fraud awareness, and safe banking practices.
As part of the closing ceremony, Burgan Bank awarded a cash prize to the winning team in the “AI and Emerging Tech” category, recognizing the innovative application of skills learned during the program. The accolade served to underscore Burgan Bank’s dedication to fostering creativity, collaboration, and the practical implementation of technological solutions among Kuwait’s young professionals.
Burgan Bank intends to continue supporting educational and developmental initiatives that empower youth and contribute to building a skilled generation aligned with Kuwait Vision 2035, reaffirming its role in nurturing future contributors to the nation’s growth.