The second round of the Core Credit Skills Enhancement Program, a collaborative effort between the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF), Pakistan, and Askari Bank Limited, was successfully held in Lahore from June 11 to 13, 2025. This comprehensive workshop was meticulously designed for the credit officers of Askari Bank to enhance their practical understanding of core credit assessment principles and credit risk management frameworks.
The initiative reflects the growing emphasis within Pakistan’s banking sector on upskilling professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With credit risk being a fundamental aspect of banking operations, such targeted training programs are instrumental in equipping banking personnel with critical decision-making skills, analytical tools, and regulatory comprehension.
The program was jointly facilitated by Mr. Tahseen M. Khan, a seasoned industry trainer known for his extensive experience in credit and risk management, and Mr. Shahid Iqbal, a prominent representative from NIBAF. Their combined expertise ensured a well-rounded learning experience, with sessions that bridged theoretical knowledge and real-world case studies relevant to Pakistan’s financial sector.
Held at a prominent training venue in Lahore, the three-day program attracted a focused group of Askari Bank’s credit officers. Participants engaged in intensive sessions covering various aspects of credit appraisal, financial statement analysis, borrower assessment, risk grading, and structuring of credit facilities. Emphasis was also placed on the current challenges facing banks in Pakistan and the importance of credit discipline in maintaining asset quality.
The facilitators adopted a highly interactive methodology, combining lectures, practical exercises, group discussions, and scenario-based simulations to foster a hands-on learning environment. This approach was well-received by attendees, many of whom highlighted the program’s relevance to their day-to-day responsibilities and the practical benefits it offered for enhancing their credit evaluation acumen.
NIBAF’s collaboration with Askari Bank for this iteration underlines the growing role of institutional partnerships in talent development within the financial sector. Such programs also align with broader goals of financial stability and improved governance by promoting sound credit practices across banking institutions.
With the successful completion of this second iteration, the Core Credit Skills Enhancement Program has further established itself as a key initiative in banking education. It not only supports the development of professional competencies but also contributes to a more resilient and knowledge-driven banking system in Pakistan.
The consistent participation of financial institutions like Askari Bank in such upskilling efforts demonstrates a commendable commitment to capacity building and institutional growth. As the industry continues to navigate new regulatory frameworks, digital transformations, and shifting economic conditions, continuous learning remains vital to sustaining operational excellence and credit quality.