MUSCAT: In line with its commitment to raising financial literacy and awareness, Bank Muscat’s free online Irshad financial coaching programme continues to make a difference in developing entrepreneurs and start up companies in Oman. The Irshad programme was started by the bank to help SMEs, startups, entrepreneurs and even individuals learn how to manage their finances and plan ahead for the future.

Bank Muscat brings a wealth of financial expertise to the table with its literacy, awareness and coaching programmes. In particular, the programme offers rich knowledge as the bank’s senior executives meet with SMEs and individuals to guide them in reaching their goals of financial efficiency and sustainability. Through the programme, the bank offers a range of coaching in vital areas such as budgeting, managing financial debt, the importance of saving regularly, challenges for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and how to raise capital. The programme is particularly aimed at empowering participants with the relevant information they need on financial planning and sustainable business.

Since its inception, the Irshad programme has benefitted a number of entrepreneurs. Appointment for the coaching can be arranged through the bank’s website at www.bankmuscat.com/en/irshad. Information about the Irshad coaches is also available at the website and all queries related to the programme can be forwarded to irshad@bankmuscat.com. Due to the current phase of social distancing, the bank has successfully implemented virtual one-to-one Irshad sessions using Microsoft Teams for the benefit of both Omani entrepreneurs as well as others across the country. Irshad coaching is available in Arabic and English for the benefit of as many people as possible.

Bank Muscat attaches great importance to the development of SMEs, entrepreneurship, financial awareness and literacy as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives. It has been playing a stellar role in improving financial inclusion in Oman by developing both financial products and services as well as non-financial support that benefits not only customers but also the general public.

The Little Investor awareness programme and the Maliyat financial literacy programme are among the landmark programmes of the bank’s sustainability initiatives. These programmes are aimed at equipping participants with essential skills to better manage finance and take prudent decisions, especially the youth and students when graduating and taking up jobs. Maliyat in particular helps participants to develop skills to draw up and implement financial plans and goals covering important phases in life.