Banks should induct customers on ATMs

EDITOR—Whereas giving a helping hand has from time immemorial been applauded and a sign of one’s humanity, when it is taken for granted and abused it not only negatively affects the helper but also others that don’t need help. This is true with accessing ATM services at some banks. Over time one will have observed that one of the major causes of long ATM queues particularly, but not limited to upcountry branches, is the ignorance of most users. It is a common practice for most upcountry people to come along with friends or relatives or even seek help from strangers to help them make ATMs transactions! Unfortunately, very few or none of them bother to learn the process but rather take it for granted and expect help whenever they want to use an ATM. I have observed that when issuing ATM cards, most banks don’t induct the users (whether old or new) on the use of the cards. Some ATMs are programmed to have instructions in both English and local languages as well as graphics. However, these are not of much help. I therefore suggest the following:
lBanks should conduct periodic public sensitisation symposiums especially with new users on the use of ATMs. lAlternatively, with every ATM issued, they should provide a detailed leaflet with clear instructions and illustrations in English and local languages.
- John Kavuma,
jkavuma8@yahoo.com

EDITOR—Banks in Uganda have a duty to induct their customers on how Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) and their cards work. It irritates me to spend five minutes waiting for someone in an ATM booth.
- James Arinaitwe
Kampala