Absa's banking competition semi-finals near

In addition, the project aims to educate young (grade 9 to 12) learners about the use of banking technology such as the Internet, cellphone, ATMs and other self-service channels.

"The Clash of the Techies project is in line with Absa's efforts to consistently inform the public on e-based banking products and services. With this initiative, we will focus on the young as we educate and highlight all benefits presented by digital banking channels," said Christo Vrey, managing executive of Absa Digital Channels.

National roll-out later

Conducted in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, the project affords learners the opportunity to have fun while learning about technology. The competition, which commenced at the beginning of the month, is currently being piloted among 30 schools in Gauteng, with the aim of a national roll-out at a later stage.

"The initiative will not only demystify banking technology for the learners, but will also introduce them to personal financial management. Addressing the financial education of our young from a young age will ultimately contribute to their financial well-being later in their lives," added Vrey.

The debating, music, poetry and fine arts competition will also assist Absa Digital Channels to understand better the attitudes and perceptions that the young have towards banking technology," stated Vrey.

Opportunity to display

Schools selected for the pilot project are those in the West Rand, Johannesburg Central and South districts.

Absa will also provide aspirant Fine Arts learners the opportunity to display their work at the bank's Towers North auditorium in Johannesburg after the finals of the competition. This will expose them to established artistes who may visit Absa for the duration of the project.

The competition's adjudicators will comprise internal and external stakeholders while workshops will be facilitated by artists such as crooners RJ Benjamin and Max-hoba.