Afghanistan reopens banking institute to revive Islamic finance sector
Da Afghanistan Bank launches training push to rebuild financial workforce for Sharia-compliant banking across country
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — In a move to bolster the country’s financial infrastructure, Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) has officially reopened the Afghanistan Institute of Banking and Finance (AIBF), aiming to enhance professional capacity and align the sector with Islamic banking principles.
The reopening ceremony, held on June 3, was led by DAB’s First Deputy Governor, Sediqullah Khalid, who emphasized the institute’s role in rebuilding the banking sector and fostering Sharia-compliant financial practices. Khalid highlighted that the AIBF is integral to DAB’s strategic plan to strengthen both banking and non-banking sectors and to nurture emerging talent.
The AIBF will facilitate continuous professional development, introduce international banking standards, and support academic research and policy development. The institute aims to provide essential skills and competencies to employees across the financial sector through coordination, partnership, and networking.
Representatives from the Microfinance Investment Support Facility for Afghanistan (MISFA) and the Afghanistan Banks Association (ABA) also attended the event, expressing support for the AIBF’s revival.
They noted that the initiative is a significant step toward strengthening the professional foundations of the country’s financial and banking sector.
Following the reopening, the AIBF launched its first training program, targeting staff from commercial banks, microfinance institutions, money service providers, and other related sectors.
The program focuses on enhancing professional capacities, improving financial literacy, and introducing participants to international standards and modern methodologies in finance and banking.
The revival of the AIBF marks a critical step in Afghanistan’s efforts to modernize its financial sector and integrate Islamic banking principles, aiming to build a resilient and skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s economic development.