The National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) has launched a five-day training program under the Islamic Banking Professional Development Program (IBPD – 24), taking place from September 1 to September 5, 2025, at its Karachi campus. The initiative aims to deepen the knowledge and expertise of banking professionals in the specialized field of Islamic finance and Shariah-compliant banking practices.
The training brings together a panel of expert trainers with years of experience in Islamic financial systems, regulation, and practical banking applications. Their role is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles, mechanisms, and operations that underpin Islamic banking. The participants include officers from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) as well as commercial banks, reflecting a diverse mix of professionals tasked with applying these concepts in real-world banking scenarios.
Islamic banking has been steadily expanding in Pakistan’s financial landscape, responding to a growing demand for Shariah-compliant products and services. With this trend, the need for well-trained professionals who can navigate the complexities of Islamic finance has become more pressing. Programs like IBPD – 24 are designed to address this need by providing participants with structured learning, practical insights, and an opportunity to engage with experts who understand both regulatory requirements and market dynamics.
The five-day course includes sessions on the fundamentals of Islamic finance, the application of Shariah principles in banking transactions, risk management in Islamic products, and the operational challenges faced by banks offering Islamic financial services. Participants are also exposed to global best practices, helping them connect local operations with international standards in Islamic banking. This approach ensures that officers leave the program equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the strategic perspective necessary to strengthen their institutions’ offerings.
NIBAF, as the training arm of the State Bank of Pakistan, has played a pivotal role in capacity building for the banking sector. Its focus on specialized areas such as Islamic banking underscores its commitment to preparing professionals for an evolving financial system. With Islamic finance continuing to gain traction, both domestically and internationally, the program reflects an investment in the future of the country’s banking workforce.
The significance of such training programs lies not only in professional development but also in their contribution to the broader financial ecosystem. By equipping officers from both SBP and commercial banks with advanced knowledge, NIBAF is fostering greater compliance with Shariah principles, improved product design, and stronger governance frameworks. This, in turn, contributes to enhancing customer trust and expanding the reach of Islamic banking across the country.
As financial institutions continue to innovate and diversify their services, the Islamic Banking Professional Development Program stands as a timely initiative to ensure that Pakistan’s banking professionals remain at the forefront of Shariah-compliant practices. It is an important step in ensuring the sustainable growth of Islamic finance, both as a domestic priority and as part of a broader global movement.
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