Iqra University Inaugurates the Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance to Advance Innovation, Research, and Industry Collaboration
Iqra University marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Iqra University Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech (IU CEIF), a landmark initiative dedicated to advancing Islamic Finance and Islamic FinTech through education, research, innovation, and industry collaboration. The launch brought together distinguished leaders from academia, regulatory institutions, and the Islamic financial services industry, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s Islamic finance ecosystem and preparing future professionals for a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
The inauguration ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Nassar Ikram, Vice Chancellor of Iqra University, who emphasized the university’s vision of fostering research driven education and creating meaningful partnerships between academia and industry. He highlighted the importance of developing institutions that contribute to knowledge creation while addressing the evolving needs of the financial sector.
The audience was then addressed by Dr. Syed Amir Ali, President and CEO of Meezan Bank, who delivered the keynote address and shared valuable insights into the growth, opportunities, and future direction of Islamic banking and finance. His remarks underscored the growing importance of innovation, technology, and skilled professionals in driving the continued development of the industry.
Presenting the vision and strategic roadmap of the Centre, M. Farhan ul Haq Usmani, Honorary Director of IU CEIF, outlined the Centre’s mission to become a leading platform for education, research, professional development, and industry engagement. He highlighted the Centre’s commitment to nurturing future ready talent, encouraging applied research, and promoting innovation that supports the sustainable growth of Islamic Finance and Islamic FinTech.
The inaugural session concluded with an address by the Chief Guest, Mr. Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, regulators, and industry stakeholders in strengthening Pakistan’s position as a global leader in Islamic finance.
The inauguration was further honored by the presence of Mr. Naveed Lakhani, Chairman of Iqra University, and Ms. Imaan Lakhani, daughter of the late Mr. Hunaid Lakhani. During the event, Ms. Imaan Lakhani interacted with representatives from Meezan Bank, distinguished guests, faculty members, researchers, and participants, reflecting her continued support for Iqra University’s vision of advancing innovation, research, and meaningful collaboration between academia and industry through the Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance. Her engagement highlighted the university’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that will drive the future of Islamic Finance and Islamic FinTech.
A major highlight of the event was a thought provoking panel discussion on the future of Islamic Finance and Islamic FinTech. Moderated by Shariq Mubeen, Chief Digital Officer of Meezan Bank, the discussion featured prominent industry experts including Dr. Muhammad Imran Ashraf Usmani, Vice Chairman of the Shariah Supervisory Board at Meezan Bank, Hamza K. Bawazir, Secretary General of the General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), Sheikh Esam Mohammad Ishaq, Chairman of the Shariah Board at Al Baraka Bank Pakistan and Member of the AAOIFI Shariah Board, and Mohammad Farrukh Raza, Chairman of Islamic Finance Advisory and Assurance Services (IFAAS). The panel explored emerging trends, digital transformation, regulatory developments, innovation, and the future direction of the Islamic financial services industry while emphasizing the importance of collaboration between academia and industry.
The ceremony was also attended by presidents, chief executives, and senior representatives of leading financial institutions from across Pakistan, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthening partnerships that support education, research, talent development, and innovation. Their presence reflected a shared vision of building a sustainable Islamic finance ecosystem through meaningful collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The establishment of the Iqra University Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech marks the beginning of a transformative journey that will serve as a hub for research, innovation, policy dialogue, professional development, and industry engagement. Through this initiative, Iqra University reaffirms its commitment to producing future leaders, advancing impactful research, and contributing to the continued evolution of Islamic Finance and Islamic FinTech at both the national and international levels.
