Meezan Bank establishes Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech at Iqra University

KARACHI: Meezan Bank has established the IU Centre for Excellence in Islamic FinTech (IU CEIF) at Iqra University in strategic collaboration with the University.

Through IU CEIF, Meezan Bank and Iqra University aim to create a platform for research, industry engagement, innovation, and capacity-building, contributing to the long-term development of Pakistan’s Islamic finance and FinTech landscape.

The Centre was inaugurated by Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) at a ceremony held at the University Auditorium, EDC Defence Campus, Karachi. The event was hosted by Prof Dr Nassar Ikram, Vice Chancellor, Iqra University, and Muhammad Farhan Ul Haq Usmani, Honorary Director, IU CEIF.

The Centre has been established as a hub for research, innovation, industry collaboration, and capacity-building at the intersection of Islamic finance and financial technology. It is designed to support Pakistan’s growing Islamic finance and FinTech ecosystem by promoting Shariah-compliant financial innovation and building future-ready capabilities.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Guest Saleem Ullah commended the collaboration between Iqra University and Meezan Bank and reaffirmed the State Bank’s support for initiatives that strengthen Islamic finance, promote responsible innovation, and expand financial inclusion.

In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Nassar Ikram said that 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.

Meezan Bank’s President and CEO, Dr Syed Amir Ali, delivered the keynote address, sharing the Bank’s vision for the Centre and its role in promoting Shariah-compliant innovation, skills development, and financial inclusion. He emphasized the need for a robust Islamic FinTech ecosystem that combines technological advancement with sustainable economic growth.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026