THE FUTURE OF FINTECH EDUCATION PREPARING THE WORKFORCE FOR A DIGITALLY DRIVEN FINANCIAL SECTOR

Abstract

Over the recent years, Financial Technology (FinTech) has become part of financial organizations’ work environment, changes that require skilled talent with a diverse background to operate and maintain technological advancements such as AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity. This study aims to focus on how fin- tech education can equip professionals with skills as they work towards developing and sustaining the new generation of a digital-driven financial system based on stakeholders’ viewpoints. Conducting semi-structured interviews with 18 participants, including educators, industry specialists, learners, and policymakers and performing a thematic analysis, the study offers five themes: Curriculum Relevance, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning; Industry-Education Collaboration, highlighting practical training through partnerships; Accessibility and Inclusivity, addressing affordability and global access challenges; Emerging Technologies, underscoring demand for technical skills; and Lifelong Learning, stressing continuous upskilling. These findings support research on technology- enhanced curriculums and industry relevance but expand that conversation by including a discussion of vocational skills and equity in education.