NIBAF Pakistan has successfully organized a 10-day professional development programme titled “Central Banking Program for SBP BSC” at its Karachi Campus from October 5 to 16, 2026. The face-to-face training was designed for officers of the State Bank of Pakistan Banking Services Corporation (SBP BSC), with the objective of strengthening their understanding of central banking functions, institutional operations and key policy and regulatory frameworks. The programme brought together experienced facilitators to support the professional development of participants and improve their understanding of the responsibilities associated with central banking. The initiative reflects NIBAF Pakistan’s continued focus on building institutional capacity and equipping financial sector professionals with the knowledge required to respond to evolving operational and regulatory challenges.
Central banking institutions perform a wide range of functions that support monetary and financial stability, effective banking operations and the implementation of regulatory policies. Their responsibilities require coordination across multiple departments and a clear understanding of the procedures through which central bank policies are implemented. For officers working at SBP BSC, professional knowledge of institutional functions and operational processes is important for carrying out their responsibilities effectively. Training programmes focused on central banking can help employees understand how different functions contribute to the broader objectives of the State Bank of Pakistan and how consistent operational practices support institutional effectiveness.
The programme featured nine facilitators with experience across different areas of banking and financial sector operations. The facilitators included Zeila Tahir, Additional Director; Shehzad Ali Sharif, Senior Joint Director; Khubaib Usmani, Senior Joint Director; Tanzeel Malik, representing EPD; Mehtab Hussain Shah, Senior Joint Director in the Banking Policy and Regulations Department (BPRD); Naveed Aslam, Senior Joint Director; Dr. Sajjad Zaheer; S. M. Zafar Iqbal; and Mahroop Ahmed. Their participation brought together professional perspectives from different roles and areas of expertise. The programme was intended to help participants develop a broader understanding of central banking responsibilities and the frameworks that guide institutional work.
A key objective of the training was to deepen participants’ knowledge of policy and regulatory frameworks. Central banking operations take place within an established structure of laws, regulations, policies and internal procedures. Officers need to understand how these requirements shape institutional processes and influence the delivery of banking services. Knowledge of regulatory responsibilities also supports consistency in decision-making, operational controls and the handling of matters that require adherence to formal procedures. By focusing on these areas, the programme aimed to strengthen participants’ ability to apply their professional knowledge in their respective roles and contribute to effective institutional functioning.
The training also addressed the importance of institutional operations in the central banking environment. Effective operations depend on clear responsibilities, coordination between departments, accurate information and adherence to established processes. Professional development programmes can help officers understand how their work connects with other institutional functions and how operational standards contribute to broader organisational objectives. As the financial sector continues to evolve, central banking professionals must remain familiar with changing operational requirements, policy developments and regulatory expectations. Continued learning can help them maintain relevant expertise and respond to new challenges in a structured manner.
The 10-day programme provided an opportunity for SBP BSC officers to focus on professional development through in-person learning at NIBAF Pakistan’s Karachi Campus. Its emphasis on central banking functions, institutional operations and policy frameworks reflects the need for ongoing training within organisations responsible for supporting Pakistan’s financial system. Strengthening employees’ understanding of these areas can contribute to improved professional performance and greater awareness of the responsibilities associated with central banking operations.
NIBAF Pakistan said it remains committed to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting professional excellence and equipping central banking professionals with the knowledge and skills required to meet emerging challenges. The Central Banking Program for SBP BSC forms part of this broader effort to support learning across Pakistan’s financial sector. By bringing together officers and facilitators for an intensive development programme, the initiative aimed to reinforce the knowledge base of participating professionals and support their continued growth within the central banking environment.
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