In a bid to enhance leadership effectiveness and organizational performance, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and key personnel of rural and community banks across Ghana have recently undergone specialized training in emotional intelligence. According to the Executive Director of the Association, Rural Banks, Ghana, Mrs. Comfort Owusu, the initiative marks a significant step forward in empowering leaders within the country’s rural and community banking sector, emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering positive workplace cultures and driving sustainable growth.
Mrs. Comfort Owusu further noted that emotional intelligence has gained recognition globally as a critical component of effective leadership, for it encompasses the ability to recognise, understand, and manage one’s emotions, as well as those of others. She reiterated that in today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, where relationships and collaboration are key to success, emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in driving organizational performance and fostering a conducive work environment.
Recognizing the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership development, rural and community banks in Ghana have taken proactive steps to invest in the professional growth of their CEOs and key personnel. This version of the training was held in Sunyani and participants were drawn from Bono, Bono East, Ahafo, Savannah, North East, Northern, Upper East, and Upper West. Through tailored training programs, participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, inspire teams, and make sound decisions even in high-pressure situations.
The training sessions covered various aspects of emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. Participants engaged in interactive workshops, case studies, and role-playing exercises designed to enhance their emotional intelligence competencies and apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
Mr. Kofi Acheampong, CEO of Suma Rural Bank, expressed his appreciation on behalf of the participants for the initiative, highlighting the transformative impact of emotional intelligence training on leadership effectiveness and organizational culture. He emphasized the importance of empathy, communication, and conflict-resolution skills in building strong relationships with clients, employees, and stakeholders.
The training was facilitated by James Kwesi Addison, Ghana’s first internationally certified emotional intelligence master coach and CEO of Addison International. He shared insights into the practical applications of emotional intelligence within the banking sector. He noted that by fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, leaders can inspire loyalty, enhance employee engagement, and ultimately drive customer satisfaction and loyalty.
In his concluding remarks, the facilitator lauded the orgainsers for such an initiative that reflects the commitment of the association of rural and community banks in Ghana to continuous improvement and professional development. By investing in the emotional intelligence of their leaders, these institutions are not only strengthening their internal capabilities but also positioning themselves for long-term success in an ever-evolving rural and community banking landscape.
In addition, James said to enhance leadership effectiveness, emotional intelligence training is expected to yield broader societal benefits by promoting ethical conduct, diversity, and inclusion within the banking sector. As rural and community banks play a vital role in driving financial inclusion and economic development in underserved communities, the cultivation of emotionally intelligent leaders is poised to create ripple effects that extend far beyond the boardroom.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com
