About CIFFT

About CIFFT
The Islamic finance and FinTech sectors in Pakistan are undergoing rapid growth and transformation. There is recognition that academic institutions, particularly those strong in engineering, technology and business, must collaborate with industry to build human-capital, conduct research, and develop relevant programmes to meet this growth.

Establishment & Strategic Partnership

  • In March 2025, a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Meezan Bank (Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank) and NED University of Engineering & Technology (NED UET) to establish the Centre for Islamic Finance and FinTech (CIFFT) situated in the Department of Economics and Management Sciences at the main campus of NED University.

  • The MoU was signed by Mr. Syed Amir Ali (Deputy CEO of Meezan Bank) and Dr Sarosh Hashmat Lodi (Vice-Chancellor of NED University)
  • A plaque unveiling ceremony was held to mark the partnership and symbolise the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing Islamic finance and FinTech education, research and industry engagement on Ramazan 19, 1446 AH / March 20, 2025.

    • Mission

    CIFFT develops talent, ideas, and ventures by offering cutting-edge training, research, and incubation in Islamic Finance and FinTech, while fostering collaboration, public engagement, and innovation rooted in Islamic values and ethical standards.

    Vision

    To be a leading centre for capacity building, research, and innovation in Islamic Finance and FinTech – empowering ethical, tech-driven Shariah compliant financial ecosystems.

    Objectives

    • The Centre of Islamic Finance and FinTech (CIFFT) aims to bridge the gap between technology, Shariah-compliant finance, and innovation, positioning NED University as a national hub for education, research, and industry collaboration in Islamic Finance and FinTech. In partnership with Meezan Bank and other industry stakeholders, CIFFT seeks to foster a new generation of skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and researchers who can shape Pakistan’s digital Islamic finance future.

      Core Objectives

    • Offer academic programs, certifications, and research opportunities in Islamic Finance and FinTech, including graduate, postgraduate, and PhD-level studies, to build technical and conceptual expertise.
    • Incubate Shariah-compliant FinTech startups

      • Industry–Academia Collaboration

    • Strengthen linkages between academia and industry by co-developing curricula, seminars, workshops, and research projects in collaboration with the broader stakeholders.

      • Entrepreneurial Support

    • Establish an incubation and innovation facility to help students and entrepreneurs design, prototype, and launch Islamic FinTech startups and solutions

      • Awareness & Outreach

    • Organize webinars, TED-style talks, public lectures, and panel discussions to promote awareness, thought leadership, and community engagement in Islamic finance and FinTech.

      • Content & Case Development

    • Develop local case studies, publications, and learning resources that address Pakistan’s real-world challenges and support academic and professional learning in the field.

      • Talent Development

    • Prepare skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds with the analytical, financial, and technological competencies required to excel in the evolving Islamic Finance and FinTech landscape