Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank and one of the country’s largest financial institutions, has established the IU Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech (IU CEIF) at Iqra University in strategic collaboration with the university. The initiative aims to strengthen Pakistan’s Islamic finance and FinTech ecosystem through research, innovation, industry collaboration, and capacity-building.
Centre Inaugurated in Karachi
The Centre was inaugurated during a ceremony held at the University Auditorium, EDC Defence Campus, Karachi.
The event was graced by Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the ceremony, he praised the collaboration between Meezan Bank and Iqra University and reaffirmed the SBP’s support for initiatives that strengthen Islamic finance, promote responsible innovation, and expand financial inclusion.
Hub for Islamic Finance and FinTech Innovation
The IU Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech has been established as a hub for research, innovation, industry collaboration, and capacity-building at the intersection of Islamic finance and financial technology.
The Centre is designed to support Pakistan’s growing Islamic finance and FinTech ecosystem by promoting Shariah-compliant financial innovation while developing future-ready skills and capabilities.
Industry Leaders and International Experts Attend
The event was hosted by Prof. Dr. Nassar Ikram, Vice Chancellor of Iqra University, and Muhammad Farhan Ul Haq Usmani, Honorary Director of IU CEIF.
The ceremony was attended by international representatives from the General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), Bahrain; Islamic Finance Advisory and Assurance Services (IFAAS), United Kingdom; and INCEIF University – International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance, Malaysia.
Also present were presidents and CEOs of leading banks, senior representatives of Meezan Bank, including Dr. Muhammad Imran Ashraf Usmani and Sheikh Esam Mohamed Ishaq, members of the Bank’s Shariah Board, officials from the State Bank of Pakistan, members of academia, faculty, students, and professionals from the banking and FinTech sectors.
Ms. Imaan Hunaid Lakhani also attended the ceremony, interacting with the Meezan Bank team and distinguished guests while expressing support for Iqra University’s vision of innovation and industry collaboration.
Leaders Outline Vision for the Centre
In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Nassar Ikram said the Centre reflects Iqra University’s commitment to advancing knowledge, innovation, and industry relevance in emerging areas of finance and technology.
He noted that the collaboration with Meezan Bank would help strengthen the future of Islamic FinTech in Pakistan by connecting academia with industry, encouraging research-led solutions, and preparing students and professionals for the evolving global financial landscape.
Meezan Bank President and CEO Dr. Syed Amir Ali delivered the keynote address, outlining the Bank’s vision for the Centre and its role in promoting Shariah-compliant innovation, skills development, and financial inclusion.
He emphasized the importance of building a robust Islamic FinTech ecosystem that combines technological advancement with sustainable economic growth.
Centre to Focus on Research and Capacity Building
Muhammad Farhan Ul Haq Usmani presented an overview of the Centre’s objectives, strategic direction, and planned initiatives.
An introductory video showcased the Centre’s focus on research, professional training, industry engagement, and innovation.
A panel discussion featuring experts from international academia, banking, and the FinTech industry explored opportunities and challenges in advancing Islamic financial technology in Pakistan.
Key topics included regulation, financial inclusion, talent development, and digital transformation.
Meezan Bank and Iqra University Aim to Strengthen Islamic FinTech Ecosystem
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of souvenirs, group photographs, the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a tour of the newly established FinTech Lounge.
Through the IU Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech, Meezan Bank and Iqra University aim to create a sustainable platform for research, innovation, industry collaboration, and capacity-building, supporting the long-term growth of Pakistan’s Islamic finance and FinTech landscape.