Global Banking School (GBS) celebrated the achievements of over 1,000 graduates at its Birmingham ceremony this week at Symphony Hall.
The graduation event took place on Tuesday 7 July and recognised students progressing into employment, entrepreneurship and further opportunities across a range of sectors, including construction, business, digital technologies and health and social care.
More than 80% of GBS Birmingham graduates came from the region’s most disadvantaged communities, reflecting the education provider’s contribution to improving access to higher-skilled employment across the city.
The award-winning institution, which has two campuses based in the city centre, helps open doors to higher education for people who may not have taken a traditional route into university – with the average graduate aged 41.
Among those graduating this week was Daniel Andrei Orghici, aged 43 from Coventry, who juggled family responsibilities and part-time study, all while running a business.
When Daniel enrolled in GBS’s business programme, he was already running a truck transportation business, but the course gave him a grounding in the theoretical and practical skills needed to build towards future expansion.
Daniel added: “Running my truck transportation business was demanding enough, but GBS gave me the theoretical and practical skills I needed that I still use every day. We now have two staff members and some ambitious expansion goals for the future.”
James Kennedy, at Global Banking School said: “Graduation is a celebration of the ambition, resilience and achievements of our students. Across the West Midlands, our learners are developing the skills, confidence and experience needed to progress in their careers, launch businesses and contribute to the region’s workforce.
“Daniel’s story is a powerful example that demonstrates the impact that career-focused education can have, supporting individuals to achieve their goals and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.”
The graduation ceremonies were supported by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands.
Richard said: “Events like this remind us what can be achieved when opportunity meets determination. Every graduate represents not just a personal achievement, but an investment in Birmingham’s future, strengthening our communities, workforce and local economy.
“To the graduates: I congratulate you on this significant milestone. I hope your studies serve as the foundation for successful careers that benefit both yourselves and the wider West Midlands community.”
The graduation ceremony showcased the contribution of career-focused higher education to employability, entrepreneurship, workforce development, social mobility, local economic growth and job creation across the West Midlands.
Find out more about Global Banking School here: https://globalbanking.ac.uk/.
