The National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan conducted a two-day capacity building program for Shariah scholars, aimed at strengthening their understanding of contemporary financial practices and Shariah-compliant financial solutions. The program was held from January 28 to 29, 2026, at Idaara Maarif-e-Islami, Mansoorah, Lahore, and brought together scholars from diverse backgrounds to enhance their professional capacity in the evolving landscape of Islamic finance.
The training program was led by Mufti M. Najeeb Khan, a well-recognized scholar and practitioner in the field of Islamic finance. His role as the trainer provided participants with both theoretical clarity and practical insights into modern financial systems and their alignment with Shariah principles. The sessions were designed to bridge the gap between classical jurisprudence and contemporary financial applications, a challenge increasingly faced by Shariah scholars working with financial institutions and advisory bodies.
Around 54 Shariah scholars participated in the program, reflecting strong interest in structured learning opportunities focused on Islamic banking and finance. Participants engaged in interactive discussions, case-based learning, and analytical sessions that addressed real-world financial scenarios. The program emphasized the importance of informed decision-making rooted in Shariah principles while remaining responsive to the complexities of modern financial markets.
Key areas covered during the two-day program included an overview of contemporary financial practices, core concepts of Islamic banking, and the development and application of Shariah-compliant financial products. Special attention was given to understanding how Islamic financial solutions are structured to meet regulatory, ethical, and economic requirements without compromising Shariah integrity. The discussions also explored emerging trends in Islamic finance and the role of Shariah scholars in guiding institutions through innovation and change.
Participants were equipped with practical tools and frameworks to evaluate financial products and transactions from a Shariah perspective. The program aimed to enhance their analytical capacity, enabling them to issue informed opinions, contribute effectively to Shariah boards, and support institutions in maintaining compliance with Islamic principles. Emphasis was placed on consistency, transparency, and accountability in Shariah decision-making.
The venue, Idaara Maarif-e-Islami in Mansoorah, Lahore, provided an academic and scholarly environment conducive to focused learning and dialogue. The setting allowed participants to engage deeply with the subject matter while exchanging perspectives and experiences with fellow scholars. Such interaction was viewed as an added value of the program, fostering collaboration and shared understanding among participants.
NIBAF Pakistan, as the training arm of the State Bank of Pakistan, continues to play a pivotal role in capacity building across the banking and financial sector. Through targeted programs for Shariah scholars, the institute aims to support the sustainable growth of Islamic banking by strengthening the human capital that underpins Shariah governance frameworks.
The successful completion of the two-day capacity building program reflects NIBAF’s commitment to promoting knowledge-based development in Islamic finance. By equipping Shariah scholars with contemporary insights and practical understanding, the initiative contributes to more robust Shariah oversight and informed participation in Pakistan’s expanding Islamic financial system.
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