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Insurance Training

The BIBF Delivers Specialised Insurance Risk Survey Programme to Oman’s Financial Services Authority

13 October 2024

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) has recently delivered a specialised Insurance Risk Survey Training Programme, at the Financial Services Authority (FSA) of Oman. This programme is designed to equip participants with essential skills in risk assessment and strategic decision-making tailored specifically for the insurance sector.

Over five intensive days, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum that emphasised the analysis of risk inspection reports and their significance in making informed decisions, covering key topics such as property risk evaluation processes, the importance and benefits of risk inspection reports, principles and best practices of risk inspection, distinctions between risk inspection and loss adjustment reports, and practical applications through site visits and report preparation.

A highlight of the programme was a hands-on learning experience, where participants conducted a real-life site visit to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting, deepening their understanding of the risk inspection process.

The programme was led by Mr. Ali Albanna, a Professional Risk Engineer with over 12 years of experience in insurance, risk management, fire safety, and engineering, offering participants valuable insights into best practices in risk management.

Ms. Manal Mashkoor, Head of the Insurance Centre at the BIBF, said, “This specialised programme reflects the BIBF’s commitment to elevating professional standards in the insurance sector and upskilling its human capital, strengthening the institute’s position as a leader in insurance training in the region.”

induction week

BIBF Holds Induction Week to Welcome its Undergraduate Students

29th September 2024

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) recently held its Undergraduate Induction Week, a two-day event designed to welcome new students and prepare them for their academic journey.

The first day aimed to help students connect and break the ice. Engaging activities allowed participants to explore their personality types and learn effective teamwork skills. This experience is intended to enhance their university life and provide valuable skills for their future careers, paving the way for a successful career and helping them beyond their academic journey, including personal growth.

The second day centred on essential university policies and procedures. The session was kicked-off by Dr. Haifa Khalaf, Head of Academics Centre at the BIBF, highlighting the importance of understanding university policies and guidelines. Furthermore, the academics centre team provided insights to help students navigate their new environment.

The event also included a motivational speech from Mr. Adnan Al-Ameer, a Bangor University alumnus and Head of the Financial Institutions Group at BBK. He shared his journey and offered valuable advice for success.

A key highlight was the announcement of summer internships from BBK for the top three performing students in the International Foundation Programme (IFP). This initiative aimed at motivating all students to excel in their academic year and prepare them for the job market early on.

Additionally, Ms. Zain Al Hamad, also a Bangor University alumnus and Money Transfer Specialist at the National Bank of Bahrain, inspired students with her insights on pursuing their goals. Students were also offered valuable prizes by Ila Bank.

Waqf Fund

Waqf Fund and BIBF Join Forces for Capacity Building of Young Bahrainis

Manama – 29 April 2024:  The Waqf Fund of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has partnered with the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) to develop and launch a specialised training programme aimed at capacity building of young Bahraini nationals within the banking and finance industry. This strategic collaboration demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to develop local talent and strengthen the foundations of the Bahraini business environment.

This three-week training programme is tailored for young Bahrainis, aiming to familiarise them with the core concepts and practices in the areas of risk, audit and compliance. The objective is to open up new avenues of employment for young Bahrainis in areas where traditionally there has been a lack of Bahraini talent. The training aims to build a basic understanding of risk management, audit procedures and regulatory compliance within the Bahraini business and financial sector landscape.

The training programme not only seeks to enhance the employment prospects of the participants but also encourages them to specialise in specific areas by pursuing relevant professional qualifications. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development, the programme aims to nurture expertise and create a pool of highly skilled Bahraini professionals in the banking and finance industry.

As a respected institution in the field of banking and finance education, BIBF brings its wealth of expertise and experience to the development and delivery of this programme. With its commitment to excellence, BIBF is dedicated to ensuring that participants receive the highest quality training and knowledge transfer, empowering them to thrive in their future careers.

Mr. Khalid Hamad Al Hamad, Chairman of the Waqf Fund, commented, “We are thrilled to collaborate with BIBF to develop this specialised training programme for young graduates. By investing in the development of local Bahraini talent, we aim to cultivate a skilled workforce that can contribute to the growth and stability of the banking sector in the Kingdom. This programme will provide participants with a strong foundation and valuable insights into the intricacies of risk, audit and compliance, enabling them to pursue rewarding career opportunities within and outside Bahrain.”

Dr. Ahmed Al Shaikh, CEO of BIBF commented: “The collaboration between the Waqf Fund and BIBF is a testament to their shared vision of developing local talent and driving the growth of the banking and finance industry in Bahrain. Through this joint effort, we aim to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the country’s financial sector”.

For more information about the training programme and application process, interested individuals can  contact islamicfinance@bibf.com.

Dr. Haifaa Khalaf

The BIBF Announces Opening of Admissions for 2024-2025 Academic Year

Manama – 24 April 2024: The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) announced the commencement of online admission for its international bachelor’s and master’s programmes for the academic year 2024-2025.

Students aspiring to pursue higher education can explore a diverse range of academic majors offered by the BIBF, including the International Foundation Programme (IFP), bachelor’s programmes in Banking & Finance and Accounting & Finance from Bangor University, and bachelor’s programmes in Economics & Management and Data Science & Business Analytics from the University of London.

To support academic excellence, the BIBF is extending scholarships to deserving high school graduates. These scholarships include a 10% waiver of International Foundation Programme fees for students with a cumulative GPA of 90% or above. Moreover, students enrolled in the bachelor’s programme in Economics and Management from the University of London will receive a 50% exemption from program fees. Additionally, scholarships will be granted to 25 outstanding students to join the bachelor’s programme in Data Science and Business Analytics from the University of London.

To provide students and parents with an opportunity for to familiarise themselves with the academic programmes and scholarships offered by the BIBF, the institute is organising an annual Open Day event on Saturday, 27April 2024. Attendees will be able to participate in one-on-one academic consultations with BIBF staff, university representatives, current students, and alumni. Additionally, they can schedule a campus tour and submit their applications free of charge during the event.

Head of Academic Studies at the BIBF, Dr. Haifaa Khalaf expressed enthusiasm about the institute’s collaboration with top international universities to offer postgraduate programmes. These programmes include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master’s in Human Resources (MSHR), and Master’s in Finance (MSF) from DePaul University in Chicago, as well as Executive MBA and Master’s in FinTech programmes awarded by Strathclyde Business School.

She added, “All academic programmes at BIBF are recognised by the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom, leading to qualifications from renowned British and American universities. Graduates of BIBF are making significant contributions to the banking and financial sector in the Kingdom, holding esteemed leadership positions.”

Prospective students interested in registering or obtaining more information about the programs and scholarships offered by BIBF are encouraged to visit the institute’s website at www.bibf.com/academics or contact the Admissions and Registration Department via email at academics@bibf.com.

TKBB Delegation to BIBF

On the Sidelines of Turkish Participation Banks’ Visit to Bahrain: TKBB and BIBF Lead Business Programme to Support Capacity Building in Türkiye

Manama – 22 April 2024: The Participation Banks Association of Türkiye (TKBB) and the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) conducted a business programme aimed at supporting the development and enhancement of capacity building activities in Türkiye.

During the business programme held in Bahrain between 21-22 April 2024, a delegation led by Mrs. Fatma Çınar, Director of TKBB and including representatives from TKBB and member banks’ training department heads, visited BIBF at its premises on 21st of April 2024.

The delegation had a full day programme started with introductory presentations made by BIBF, providing insights into the institute’s organisation structure, centres, training and certification programmes, and included a tour of the institute building. Following the introductory sessions, the delegation engaged in bilateral meetings with BIBF’s Islamic Finance, Digital Transformation, and Leadership Learning Centres of the BIBF to explore potential collaboration areas.

The programme continued with the two separate high-level workshops on Digital Transformation and Sustainability, conducted by the experts in the respective fields. At the end of the programme, TKBB and BIBF had a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) update ceremony to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation in the field of training and education.

Mrs. Fatma Çınar, Director of TKBB said, “We are glad to have our continued dialogue with the BIBF which makes a significant contribution to capacity building development and enhancement within the ecosystem. We would like to thank for the very kind hospitality and insightful sharings and sophisticated workshops arranged for our delegation by distinguished BIBF team with the leadership of Dr. Ahmad Al Shaikh. She further added, “We believe that this visit would stimulate the further cooperation with member banks’ training teams and enhance the qualifications of human resource of the sector. We are grateful to experience selective courses and meet BIBF team and outline possible cooperation areas under the renewed MoU which would be executed with mutual commitment and dedication.”

Dr. Ahmed Al Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer of BIBF, emphasised the significance of the continuous collaboration with TKBB, stating, “Our partnership with TKBB reflects our enduring commitment to capacity building in the global Islamic banking and finance space. As Türkiye emerges as a global financial centre, it is essential to prioritise training and development initiatives to ensure sustained growth and resilience in the sector.” He further added, “With the Kingdom of Bahrain being recognised as the global leader in Islamic finance, the BIBF stands as the leading Islamic finance training provider worldwide, contributing to the development of human capital in this field; building an ecosystem of highly skilled professionals who will enhance and expand the industry’s global footprint.”

Dr. Haifaa Khalaf

BIBF Head of Academic Studies: Admissions Open for Bachelor’s and Master’s Programmes

7 February – 2024

Manama: The Head of Academic Centre at the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), Dr. Haifaa Khalaf, announced that the institute is currently accepting online applications for its bachelor’s and master’s programmes for the upcoming academic year.

The majors offered include the International Foundation Programme (IFP), bachelor’s programmes in Banking & Finance, Accounting & Finance, Banking & Finance with Diploma in Islamic Finance from Bangor University, and bachelor’s programmes in Economics & Management and Data Science & Business Analytics from the University of London.

The Head of Academic Centre highlighted that a 10% fee waiver for the International Foundation Programme will be offered to high school graduates with a cumulative average of 90% or above. Additionally, new and current students in the B.Sc. Economics & Management from the University of London will receive a 50% exemption throughout their studies. Scholarships will also be provided to 25 top achievers to enroll in the B.Sc. Data Science and Business Analytics by the University of London.

The BIBF also offers postgraduate programmes, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master’s in Human Resources (MSHR), and Master’s in Finance (MSF) from DePaul University in Chicago, as well as Executive MBA and Master’s in FinTech programmes awarded by Strathclyde Business School.

“All academic programmes offered at BIBF are fully recognised by the Higher Education Council of Bahrain and lead to qualifications from highly ranked British and American universities,” said Dr. Haifaa. “By studying locally in Bahrain, students can obtain an internationally recognised degree.”

For over two decades, the BIBF has collaborated with world-class universities to offer exceptional academic programmes in Bahrain, taking great pride in producing graduates that occupy leadership positions in the labour market today.

Dr. Haifaa Khalaf encouraged interested students to visit the BIBF website for more information and follow their social media channels for the latest updates.

Islamic Finance Advisory Committee

The BIBF Holds Inaugural Meeting of Islamic Finance Advisory Committee

Manama, Bahrain – 4 February 2024

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) successfully held the inaugural meeting of its reconstituted Islamic Finance Advisory Committee (IFAC) at the institute Headquarters.

The meeting addressed critical agendas, including the appointment of the Chairman and Deputy Chairman, approval of the IFAC Charter, and a comprehensive review of the BIBF Islamic Finance Centre’s plan for 2024.

The distinguished members of the IFAC, representing a wealth of experience in the Islamic banking and finance sector across diverse countries in the region, include:

  • Mr. Adnan Ahmed Yousif – Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB)
  • Ms. Amal Saif – Head of Islamic Operations at Bahrain Islamic Bank
  • Ms. Einas Mohamed Raheemi – Head of Enterprise Support Services & Sustainability at Ithmaar Bank Bahrain
  • Dr. Fatin A Zadjali, Head of Learning & Development at Bank Dhofar Oman
  • Mr. Hussain abdulhaq – Head of Treasury & Financial Markets at Al Salam Bank Bahrain
  • Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine – Economic Advisor at Tamkeen Bahrain
  • Ms. Khawla Ebrahim – Director of Islamic Financial Institutions Supervision Directorate at the Central Bank of Bahrain
  • Sheikh. Dr. Mohamed Arbouna – Head of Shari’ah Compliance at Al Salam Bank Bahrain
  • Dr. Sutan Emir Hidayat – Director of Islamic Economy & Finance Ecosystem at Indonesia Islamic Economy and Finance Committee
  • Dr. Tarek Seif – General Secretary at Insurance Federation of Egypt

Mr. Adnan Yousif was appointed as the Chairman of IFAC while Ms. Khawla Ebrahim was selected as the Deputy Chairman. The term for both positions is set at three years.

On this occasion, Dr. Ahmed Al Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer of the BIBF, said, “The BIBF is thrilled to embark on this new chapter with the reconstituted IFAC, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and innovation in Islamic banking and finance education, research, and consultation. The institute looks forward to a productive and impactful collaboration with IFAC in achieving its strategic objectives for 2024 and beyond.”

Dr. Rizwan Malik, Head of Islamic Finance Centre at the BIBF stated, “The IFAC plays a pivotal role in providing strategic advice and direction to the Islamic Finance Centre at the BIBF to enhance its offerings within the Islamic banking and finance industry. The committee aims to bolster existing programmes while introducing new initiatives in training, research, and consulting. This move aligns with the BIBF’s commitment to creating a holistic ecosystem that corresponds with its vision, mission, and strategic pillars.”

BIBF Building

The BIBF Achieves ISO 27001:2022 Certification for Information Security Management Systems

Tuesday, 16 January 2024

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), the leading training and development organisation in the region, has officially obtained the prestigious ISO 27001:2022 certification for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), signifying a determined effort to fortify information security measures according to global standards. The BIBF is the first educational institute to obtain this coveted certification in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The BIBF’s successful certification demonstrates its dedication to safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. Over the past year, the BIBF has focused on strengthening the security posture by restructuring the  Information Security programme to meet internationally recognised benchmarks. Key improvements encompass focused security awareness training, a comprehensive overhaul of information security policies, and the implementation of industry standards security measures to protect company data.

ISO 27001:2022 is an internationally recognized standard that sets forth the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system within the context of the organization’s overall business risks.

The BIBF’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ahmed Al Shaikh, stressed on the significance of this achievement, emphasising the institute’s commitment to safeguarding data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. He highlighted this accomplishment as a testament to maintaining the highest information security standards.

Dr. Al Shaikh also expressed gratitude to the IT & Operations team behind this achievement and acknowledged the continuous support and motivation from the management team, which played a pivotal role in this accomplishment.

Mr. Yusuf Al Dakheel, Senior Manager of IT and Operations Department at the BIBF, stated that this certification marks a milestone in ongoing efforts to enhance information  security controls, showcasing the team’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding valuable information. He also highlighted that the certification not only bolsters the BIBF’s reputation but also strengthens trust among learners and partners, through ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations while enhancing the ability to address potential security incidents.

The BIBF Celebrates Graduation of 76 Students from Bangor University Undergraduate Programmes

Monday, 4th December 2023

In collaboration with the Central Bank of Bahrain, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) proudly marked the graduation of 76 accomplished students from its international bachelor’s programmes, awarded by Bangor University of Wales. This significant event coincided with the 20th anniversary of the enduring collaboration between BIBF and Bangor University.

The graduation ceremony was held in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain and Chairman of the Board of Directors of BIBF, and her Excellency Dr. Diana Abdulkareem Al Jahrami, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council, Professor Andrew Edwards Pro Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University, and Dr. Ahmed Abdul Ghani Al Shaikh, CEO of the BIBF. The ceremony was attended by faculty members, executive management, representatives from banking and financial institutions, and the proud parents and families of the graduates.

The ceremony also provided on-stage job offers and internship opportunities for the graduates, provided by the Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK), National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Bank ABC, and SICO Bank. Furthermore, Bangor University presented master’s degree scholarships on stage, marking a historic moment for the institute.

In addition, excellence awards were presented to the graduates by representatives of prominent financial institutions in the Kingdom, including the Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK), Kuwait Finance House (KFH-Bahrain), National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Ahli United Bank (AUB Bahrain), Bank ABC, Arab Bank, and The Benefit Company.

A highlight of the event was the acknowledgment of His Excellency Mr. Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the BIBF, by Bangor University.

Dr. Ahmed Al-Shaikh, CEO of BIBF, congratulated the graduates for their academic achievements and encouraged them to excel in their future careers, emphasizing the Institute’s commitment to contributing to the economic goals of the Kingdom of Bahrain through high-level international academic programmes. Dr. Al-Shaikh also emphasised: “The remarkable statistic from the graduate destination survey, showcasing an 85% employment rate within one year of graduation, is a testament to the BIBF’s dedication to producing graduates who are not only academically adept but also industry-ready. It is truly gratifying to witness that most graduates have already secured employment immediately after completing their studies, which reflects the BIBF’s commitment to providing quality education; ultimately contributing to the economic prosperity of the Kingdom of Bahrain.”

Professor Andrew Edwards, Vice President of Bangor University, expressed pride in the enduring relationship between Bangor University and BIBF, spanning over two decades, providing the banking and financial sector with qualified professionals prepared for the industry’s demands.

The ceremony also featured a speech by Mr. Adnan Al-Ameer, representing the alumni community, and Ms. Jenan Al-Khabbaz, representing the graduates. Certificates were handed over by Professor Andrew Edwards and Dr. Ahmed Al-Shaikh.

The graduates and their parents expressed overwhelming joy at the announcement of scholarships and job opportunities, showcasing the alignment between educational outcomes and industry needs.

Bangor University, a venerable institution in the United Kingdom, offers accredited bachelor’s programmes in banking and finance, accounting and finance, and finance. Notably, it holds the top position in the UK for banking research, according to the latest RePEc database classification.

BIBF - UpGradelle

The BIBF and Upgradelle Forge Strategic Partnership to Build Capacity in Digital Transformation and Agile Project Management

Wednesday, 22 November 2023

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) announced a strategic partnership with UpGradelle, a leading French-based consultancy firm specialised in digital transformation architectures, with the main aim of developing capabilities in the field of Digital Transformation and Agile Project Management. The agreement was signed during the distinguished visit of His Excellency, the Ambassador of France, Mr. Eric Giraud-Telme, who serves to strengthen education and training ties between Bahrain and France.

On this occasion, Dr. Nesrine Beldi Miro Padovani, Co-founder, and CEO of UpGradelle stated, “At UpGradelle, we are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with the BIBF to empower the Kingdom of Bahrain’s human capital, equipping them with the essential skills to spearhead agile transformations within their respective organisations.”

On his part, Dr. Ahmed Al Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer of the BIBF stated, “This collaboration, with its focus on advancing capabilities in Digital Transformation and Agile Project Management, is set to strengthen the BIBF’s position as a leader in delivering state-of-the-art training and development solutions in this crucial field. As industries worldwide embrace agile methodologies to navigate the challenges of the digital era, the BIBF, with the support of UpGradelle as a digital leader, plans to equip Bahrain’s financial and business sectors with highly skilled agile leaders that can catalyse the change in business operations.”

Ms. Maryam Majed, Head of Digital Transformation and Project Management Centre at the BIBF, stated, “This partnership marks a strategic step in our commitment to equipping professionals with the skills needed to drive digital transformation in their respective organisations. Together with Upgradelle, we aim to empower Bahrain’s workforce, ensuring they are at the forefront of innovation.”

As Bahrain continues its journey towards becoming a digital hub, this collaboration between the BIBF and Upgradelle is poised to cultivate a future where Bahrain’s cadres lead in digital literacy and innovation. It is a step towards ensuring that Bahrain’s human capital is not just prepared for the future but are active contributors to the ongoing digital revolution.