The National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF), the premier training and development arm of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), organized a key training session on financial intermediation on May 31, 2025. This session was part of the structured curriculum designed for the State Bank Officers Training Scheme (SBOTS) – 27th Batch. The training was conducted under the broader initiative to equip new officers with critical knowledge and practical insights into the modern banking landscape of Pakistan.
The training was led by Mr. Khurram Shehzad, a highly regarded name in the financial sector, known for his extensive expertise in investment banking, economic analysis, and financial strategy. With a career that spans over two decades, Mr. Shehzad has been at the forefront of financial thought leadership in Pakistan. His session focused on the mechanics, relevance, and evolving role of financial intermediation in the country’s banking and economic framework.
Financial intermediation is a cornerstone of modern banking, acting as a bridge between savers and borrowers. During the session, participants explored the role of financial intermediaries in promoting economic development, managing risks, and improving capital allocation in the economy. Mr. Shehzad shared real-world case studies and drew from his rich professional background to demonstrate how financial intermediation contributes to financial stability and inclusion.
The session also provided an overview of the changing dynamics in the financial sector, particularly how technology and innovation are reshaping traditional intermediation processes. Mr. Shehzad emphasized the need for young officers to stay informed about digital trends, regulatory changes, and the growing significance of fintech solutions in Pakistan’s banking environment. Participants were encouraged to think critically about the future of intermediation and its potential challenges, especially in an economy where digital transformation is accelerating.
NIBAF continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of central bankers and financial professionals in Pakistan. Through programs like SBOTS, it ensures that recruits are not only trained in theoretical foundations but are also provided with exposure to contemporary developments in the financial sector. The training on financial intermediation is part of a larger vision to build a knowledge-based workforce that can lead policy implementation and banking reforms across the country.
With industry veterans like Mr. Khurram Shehzad sharing their insights, SBP’s training programs offer a unique blend of academic rigor and practical wisdom. These sessions are instrumental in preparing officers to tackle real-world banking challenges while maintaining the State Bank’s mission of financial stability and economic growth.
As the banking sector evolves, such initiatives underscore SBP’s commitment to capacity building, innovation, and excellence in governance.