Foysal Hasan, an Assistant Professor at Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management, recently completed our Certified FinTech Practitioner course. As part of his role, he delivers training and conducts research on banking technology, FinTech, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Additionally, he has authored numerous articles and journals at both national and international levels.
Foysal highlighted how the Certified Fintech Practitioner programme improved his industry knowledge and helped in fostering relationships with banks.
What do you think about FinTech trends worldwide, and how well does the Certified Fintech Practitioner programme cover these?
If we dive into recent changes in the financial world, it’s been like a race of sorts – with decentralised finance, alternative finance, and open banking taking the lead. Trade finance has evolved with blockchain facilitating seamless cross-border transactions. The ‘buy now pay later’ (BNPL) trend is rising, not just in the UK but also in emerging markets such as Bangladesh. The course provided me with insights into these FinTech and digital banking shifts, and I’ve shared this knowledge in my banking community.
How did you find the course modules and how did they contribute to your understanding of FinTech?
The self paced course structure proved to be a game-changer for me, especially given my schedule as a professor. What stood out was the case-study approach. It bridged theory and real-world applications, while the video lectures kept it engaging.
The modules covered embedded finance, artificial intelligence and its applications, alternative finance, blockchain technologies, the impact of cloud computing on banks, and regulatory considerations. What impressed me was the depth of insights provided in response to our questions, offering perspectives that were hard to come by elsewhere.
I learnt how collaborations between banks and FinTech work. Meeting with experts from diverse disciplines and international participants brought a rich diversity of insights and experiences to the table.
What does the future hold for your career, and how has the course played a role in shaping things?
Beyond my role as a professor, I actively assist banks in developing strategies to either compete with or align themselves with FinTech firms. Traditional banks are keen to understand how FinTech startups start small but achieve rapid growth. Thanks to this course, I can now help traditional banks formulate effective strategies, including advising them to consider collaboration with FinTech firms rather than competing with them. This has helped me in my role as a consultant.
Do you think finance professionals and those aspiring to enter the FinTech field would benefit from taking this course?
Absolutely, and I’d like to highlight three reasons why. Firstly, the opportunity to engage with industry experts from the global FinTech market is invaluable. Secondly, gaining access to insights regarding the latest changes and trends in the global FinTech and technological landscape is a major advantage. Lastly, there’s the credibility associated with the organisation’s legacy. Displaying a certificate from LIBF, a more than 140-year-old institution, significantly enhances acceptance. While there may be numerous FinTech courses available, holding a certification from an esteemed organisation like LIBF sets me apart in the banking community.
How important is continuous learning, as a professional?
The accessibility of knowledge in the digital age allows anyone to acquire new skills with just a click. To progress both professionally and personally, there’s simply no substitute for continuous learning.
Look at technology – it’s growing and moving rapidly. If you don’t keep up with these changes, you might find it hard to connect with others in your field and may not be able to lead in the future. So, stay open to learning and make sure you stay updated.
Learn more about our Certified FinTech Practitioner programme.
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