NIBAF Pakistan has successfully concluded a four-day intensive training programme titled “Mastering Excel with Dashboards and AI Data Modeling in Power BI,” reinforcing its role in strengthening analytical and data-driven capabilities within Pakistan’s financial sector. The programme was held from December 08 to December 11, 2025, at NIBAF Pakistan’s Lahore Campus and brought together professionals from key financial institutions for a structured, hands-on learning experience.
The training programme was designed to address the growing demand for advanced data analysis, visualization, and decision-support skills within central banking, development finance, and financial inclusion institutions. As financial systems increasingly rely on data-led insights, NIBAF’s initiative reflects a strategic focus on equipping professionals with modern analytical tools that enhance operational efficiency, reporting accuracy, and policy analysis.
A total of 22 officers participated in the programme, representing the State Bank of Pakistan – Banking Services Corporation (SBP-BSC) and Kashf Foundation. The diverse participant group allowed for cross-institutional learning and knowledge sharing, particularly in areas where regulatory oversight, financial operations, and development finance intersect.
The training was conducted by Mr. Irfan Bakalay, who guided participants through a structured curriculum combining theoretical concepts with practical application. The programme placed strong emphasis on hands-on exercises, enabling participants to apply advanced Excel functions, design interactive dashboards, and develop data models using Power BI. This approach ensured that learning outcomes were directly aligned with real-world data challenges faced by financial institutions.
Over the four days, participants were exposed to advanced Excel techniques, including data transformation, automation, and advanced formulas used for large datasets. Building on this foundation, the training progressed toward dashboard development, focusing on best practices for data visualization, performance tracking, and management reporting. These skills are increasingly critical for financial institutions seeking to improve transparency, monitoring, and decision-making processes.
A key component of the programme was the introduction of AI-driven data modeling within Power BI. Participants learned how to structure data models, integrate multiple data sources, and apply analytical features that support predictive insights and trend analysis. The inclusion of AI-based techniques reflects the broader shift within the financial sector toward advanced analytics and business intelligence tools that support evidence-based decision-making.
NIBAF Pakistan highlighted that the programme aligns with its broader mandate to build capacity across Pakistan’s financial ecosystem. By focusing on modern analytical tools such as Power BI and AI-enabled modeling, the institute aims to support institutions in adapting to evolving technological and regulatory environments. Enhanced data capabilities are increasingly viewed as essential for effective supervision, operational planning, and service delivery.
Participants reportedly benefited from practical exposure to real-life datasets and case scenarios, enabling them to translate classroom learning into actionable workplace skills. The interactive nature of the sessions also encouraged discussion around data governance, reporting standards, and analytical challenges specific to banking and microfinance institutions.
The presence of officers from both SBP-BSC and Kashf Foundation underscored the relevance of such training across different segments of the financial sector. While central banking functions require robust data analysis for policy implementation and oversight, development finance institutions rely on analytics to measure impact, manage risk, and improve outreach. The programme provided a common analytical framework that can be adapted to these varying institutional needs.
NIBAF Pakistan stated that capacity-building initiatives such as this training programme are part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen human capital in the financial sector. As digital transformation accelerates, the institute aims to continue offering specialised programmes that address emerging skill gaps in data analytics, financial technology, and regulatory practices.
The successful conclusion of the four-day training programme highlights NIBAF Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a data-driven culture within financial institutions. By equipping professionals with advanced Excel, dashboarding, and AI-based analytical skills, the institute is contributing to improved decision-making, operational effectiveness, and long-term resilience of Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
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