BI - Monthly Newsletter
8th Edition - March - April 2024

Celebrating Achievements, Events, and Collaborations at IBA

Banner: IBA's Resource Mobilization Department welcomes you to the latest edition of our Friends of IBA Newsletter covering the months of March and April 2024! Each passing month unveils the tangible outcomes of our continuous pursuit of improvement, excellence, and innovation at IBA Karachi. Our students continue to achieve remarkable milestones, while the support from our partners fuels our commitment to cultivating an environment that champions inclusivity, celebrates diversity, and fosters both intellectual and personal growth.

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."
Desmond Tutu

IBA Karachi's RM department proudly presents the latest edition of our newsletter, showcasing the growth and achievements of our vibrant IBA community. As we continue to thrive and excel, we're delighted to share the latest highlights and updates with you. Let's dive into the news together!

Highlights from Recent Events at IBA Karachi
Alumni Reunion Highlights: Leading Minds Gather for MS-IBF Event:

On April 19, 2024, the IBA Karachi was abuzz with excitement as leading figures in Islamic Banking and Finance convened for a special program-specific IBA Alumni Reunion for MS Islamic Banking & Finance (MS-IBF). Organized by the IBA Alumni Affairs Department and the MS-IBF Program, the event welcomed over 85 guests from more than 35 organizations.

Distinguished speakers such as Dr. Ishrat Husain, Former Governor State Bank of Pakistan; Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor State Bank of Pakistan; Yousaf Hussain, President & CEO Faysal Bank; Mufti Dr. Irshad Ahmad Aijaz, Chairman Shari'ah Advisory Committee SBP and SECP & Chairman Shari'ah Board BankIslami; Muhammad Atif Hanif, CEO AlBaraka Bank Pakistan Ltd.; Azhar Aslam, Managing Director Head Islamic Banking Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan; Rehmat Hasnie, CEO National Bank of Pakistan, among others, shared industry insights and discussed the direction of Islamic finance. Topics ranged from the demand for automation to the challenges in transitioning to Islamic Banking as per Shari'ah principles.

Attendees seized the opportunity to network, exchange experiences, and gain valuable perspectives on the future of the industry. The event marked another successful initiative by the IBA Alumni Affairs Department, following previous industry-focused reunions and summits. Dr. Abdullah Zafar Sheikh and Dr. Hilal Anwar Butt also graced the occasion, further enriching the discourse on Islamic finance. Click here to read more.

Bank Alfalah Islamic Supports IBA Karachi's NTHP Students

On April 24, 2024, Bank Alfalah Islamic demonstrated its dedication to education and community development by awarding scholarships to five deserving students from IBA Karachi's National Talent Hunt Program (NTHP). The check-handing ceremony, held at Bank Alfalah Islamic Premier branch, showcased the bank's commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Dr. Muhammad Imran, Group Head of Islamic Banking at Bank Alfalah and an IBA alumni, presented the cheque to Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA Karachi. The event, attended by senior management and alumni, featured discussions on Bank Alfalah Islamic's vision for the banking sector and the enriching experiences of the scholarship recipients at IBA Karachi.

Dr. Imran emphasized the importance of giving back to society, while attendees expressed renewed commitments to collaboration for the betterment of IBA and its community. Read the full story here.

Asian Development Bank Delegation Engages with IBA Karachi:

On March 26, 2024, a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) visited the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) at IBA Karachi to explore collaboration opportunities and discuss Pakistan's macroeconomic outlook.

The meeting, led by Dr. Lubna Naz, Director of CBER, covered various topics including fuel imports, agricultural and energy subsidies, political stability, the digital economy, and human capital development. The ADB team, comprising officials like Asad Aleem and Shaista Hussain, expressed interest in partnering for policy research and capacity building. For further insights into this discussion, read more.

SMCS Introduces Parvaaz Mentorship Program:

On March 28, 2024, The School of Mathematics & Computer Sciences at IBA Karachi proudly launched the Parvaaz Mentorship Program, in partnership with the Career Development Center & the Alumni Affairs & Resource Mobilization Department. The inaugural session welcomed esteemed mentors and featured testimonials from past participants, highlighting the program's impact. Additionally, a dynamic panel discussion on tech leadership journeys, moderated by Professor Jawwad Farid, offered valuable insights from industry leaders. For further details on this transformative initiative, Click here.

Spotlight on Community Achievements
IBA Alumnus Excels at University of Essex

IBA Karachi proudly shares the achievement of its student Amin Nizar Ali, who has recently accomplished a significant milestone. Amin, a graduate from the Class of 2020 with a bachelor’s in computer science (BSCS), has successfully obtained his Master's degree with distinction from the University of Essex. He pursued an MSc in Data Sciences, specializing in developing a machine learning model aimed at predicting company bankruptcy using financial data. Additionally, Amin was awarded a Masters Excellence Scholarship, covering 25% of his tuition fees.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Amin Nizar Ali on this remarkable achievement and wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.

Fasih Zulfiqar Secures Fully Funded Masters at Duke University

IBA Karachi shares the immense pride in the achievement of Fasih Zulfiqar, a student from the Class of 2024, pursuing BS Economics and Mathematics. Fasih has garnered a well-deserved accolade by securing a fully funded Masters in Analytical Political Economy at Duke University! He attributes his success to IBA's 'intellectual weight training,' which, in his words, honed his critical thinking skills. Congratulations, Fasih, on this remarkable accomplishment!

IBA Karachi Proudly Shares: Finance Director Honored with Finance Leader Award

IBA Karachi is thrilled to announce the outstanding achievement of its Finance Director, Moeid Sultan, who has been honored with the Finance Leader Award (non-public) at the esteemed Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan’s (ICAP) Professional Excellence Awards 2024 ceremony!

Moeid Sultan's exceptional dedication and expertise have significantly influenced the financial landscape, both within IBA Karachi and in the broader professional community. His visionary leadership has set new standards in the field of finance.

IBA Karachi Achieves 'W' Category Accreditation for BS Computer Science Program

IBA Karachi is thrilled to announce that the National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC) has awarded a 'W' category accreditation to the BS Computer Science program offered by the School of Mathematics & Computer Science (SMCS). This accreditation underscores our dedication to academic excellence. The NCEAC's inspection team conducted a thorough evaluation of the program against their standards during their visit to our campus earlier this year, emphasizing IBA's commitment to maintaining high academic standards. For further details, read more.

Acknowledging Our Supporters: Recent Donors and Partnerships

IBA Karachi Gratefully Acknowledges Mr. Riyaz Chinoy's Generosity

IBA Karachi extends heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Riyaz Chinoy for his generous contribution. Through the establishment of an endowment fund, this initiative promises perpetual support for deserving students, fostering brighter futures and the fulfillment of their dreams. To learn more about this impactful initiative, click here.

IBA Karachi Thanks Dr. Zafar Ahmed Khan Sherwani for his Generosity

IBA Karachi expresses sincere appreciation to Dr. Zafar Ahmed Khan Sherwani for his generous contribution. Through the creation of an endowment fund, we ensure ongoing support for deserving students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and create brighter futures. To delve deeper into this impactful initiative, click here .

Mr. Faisal Jiwani Establishes Endowment Fund at IBA Karachi

IBA Karachi is pleased to acknowledge Mr. Faisal Jiwani’s generous contribution. Through the creation of a Jiwani Endowment Fund, we secure perpetual support for deserving students, empowering them to pursue their dreams and shape brighter futures. To learn more about this impactful initiative, click here .

The Hassan Foundation Establishes Annual Scholarship Fund

IBA Karachi expresses gratitude to The Hassan Foundation for establishing an annual scholarship fund supporting six students throughout their degree programs. This significant commitment to education provides deserving students with opportunities to pursue academic aspirations without any financial constraints.

We extend heartfelt thanks to The Hassan Foundation for supporting the next generation of leaders.

IBA extend their heartfelt gratitude to all our generous donors and partners who have contributed to the growth and success of IBA Karachi. Your support has made a profound impact on our students' lives and our institution as a whole.

To contribute to IBA Karachi's mission or to learn how you can establish an endowment in memory of a beloved friend, family member, or mentor, please reach out to us at rm@iba.edu.pk or contact us directly at +92 301 811 8850. Our team is here to guide you through the process with care and compassion. Stay blessed!

Burhan Allah Saiyed
(IBA Batch of 2010)

Senior Manager
Alumni Affairs & Resource Mobilization

Patron
IBA Alumni Society

Office: +92-21 3810 4700 Ext: 1241
Cell: +92 346 052 3201
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