Citigroup increases its commitment to Lebanon youth

Extended by Citigroup Foundation, the grant will be used to support the delivery of JAW's Personal Economics program across the country.

Founded in 1919, Junior Achievement is one of the oldest non-profit education organizations, whose mission is to implement economic education programs for students at the high school level through a partnership between business and education. The programs, offered through professional volunteers help young people gain an understanding of the importance of market-driven economies, the role of business in the global economy, and the impact of economics on their future. Through a time-tested program JAW has reached more than 4 million students in more than 104 countries around the world.

In addition to financial contributions, Injaz Lebanon (formely Junior Achievement Lebanon) activities are supported by voluntary efforts of professionals who take time out of their schedules to cooperate with students and teachers in classrooms across the country. Students are taught how to prepare a personal budget, write a check, and draft a CV among other useful items in the program. Offered in both English and Arabic, Injaz curriculum also aims to provide information about investments, and pass on skills that will help in choosing a career and succeeding at job interviews.

Citigroup Lebanon has been an active partner of Injaz Lebanon, providing essential support that has enabled the delivery of the Personal Economics program to students in the West and South Bekaa regions. This latest grant complements earlier grants of USD 10,000 in 2004, followed by USD 15,000 in 2005.

Walter Siouffi, Citigroup Country Officer in Lebanon and Advisory Board Member of Injaz, said:

"Citigroup supports JAW in many countries around the world. Our fresh contribution to Lebanon reflects our strong support for the initiative, which has done an excellent job delivering basic tools in the area of financial literacy to students across the country. The positive feedback from young students that have attended the program is a testimony to the success of the program."

Kamal Katra, Chairman of Injaz Lebanon, said: "We greatly appreciate Citigroup for believing in Injaz and for contributing to the success of its mission. We salute Citigroup's efforts in educating the youth and creating a brighter future for them so that they become skillful citizens and pioneers in their careers."

Citigroup's presence in Lebanon dates back to the 1950s. Since re-establishing its fully licensed branch in Beirut over nine years ago, the Bank has evolved into an active corporate citizen, with a particular interest in supporting financial literacy and education.