As part of its Cyber Risk Officers Scheme (CROS 1) Pre Induction Training Program, National Institute of Banking and Finance Pakistan (NIBAF Pakistan) organized an industry exposure visit to Askari Bank IT Infrastructure Facility on September 3, 2026. The visit provided officer trainees with an opportunity to engage directly with the bank’s Technology and Information Security teams through an interactive session focused on banking technology and cybersecurity. The initiative was designed to complement classroom training with practical exposure to technology operations within the financial sector while helping participants gain a better understanding of how modern banking infrastructure supports secure and efficient services.
During the visit, participants were introduced to various aspects of Askari Bank’s technology environment, including its core banking systems, system integration processes, technology governance practices, and cybersecurity controls. The interactive sessions allowed trainees to observe how information technology supports banking operations while maintaining the security and resilience of critical systems. Through discussions with the bank’s technology and information security professionals, participants explored the role of IT infrastructure in enabling secure financial services and the importance of governance frameworks in managing technology related risks. The experience was intended to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical implementation by providing direct exposure to the operational environment of a financial institution.
The industry visit formed part of the broader objectives of the Cyber Risk Officers Scheme, which aims to prepare future professionals for risk management responsibilities within Pakistan’s financial sector. By providing access to a live banking technology environment, the program enables participants to better understand the operational, governance, and cybersecurity measures that financial institutions implement to safeguard digital assets and maintain service continuity. The exposure to core systems, cybersecurity practices, and technology integration also helps trainees appreciate the complexities involved in managing enterprise IT environments while supporting compliance and secure banking operations. Such initiatives contribute to developing professionals with both technical knowledge and practical understanding of the evolving cybersecurity landscape within the banking industry.
NIBAF Pakistan expressed its appreciation to Askari Bank for hosting the officer trainees and supporting hands on capacity building through the industry visit. The institute noted that collaboration between training organizations and financial institutions plays an important role in developing skilled professionals capable of addressing emerging cyber risk and technology challenges. By facilitating direct interaction with experienced technology and information security teams, the visit provided valuable insights into modern banking operations and strengthened the practical learning experience for participants enrolled in the CROS 1 Pre Induction Training Program. The initiative also reflects ongoing efforts to enhance professional development for future financial sector risk leaders through structured industry engagement and real world learning opportunities.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
