SBP holds training workshop for journalists

The objective of this workshop was to familiarize the journalists with the key concepts of macroeconomics and functions of SBP such as monetary policy, banking supervision and regulation, and overseeing of financial markets.

Large number of electronic and print media journalists attended the workshop.

Governor State Bank Ashraf Mahmood Wathra in his address termed the workshop as an important step towards the broader goal of increase in financial inclusion in the country. He underlined the need for an inclusive growth in the country at an accelerated pace, and said that all segments of the economy must contribute towards this goal.

“Lack of general public’s understanding of prevalent Islamic banking paradigm is one of the major impediments to sustainable growth of the industry, “he added.

The Governor said that SBP has successfully piloted a Nationwide Financial Literacy Program to improve the financial well being of low income strata through enhanced flow of financial education. Now it is contemplating a

National Roll out of Financial Literacy Program (NFLP). However, he conceded that such efforts need to be complemented with information and guidance from opinion leaders who have an influence on mass behavior.

The Governor hoped that journalists would be better equipped to report on macroeconomics, financial sector and banking after this workshop and use this new found knowledge to serve the larger cause of financial inclusion.

He also responded to the questions of journalists.

Various topics pertaining to the SBP were covered during the two-day workshop.

Chief spokesman and Director External Relations Abid Qamar spoke on Monetary Policy while Additional Director,  Mahmood-ul-Hasan made a presentation on Real and the Fiscal Sectors whereas Senior Joint Director, Asma Khalid spoke on External Sector. Additional Director, Muhammed Javaid Ismael made a presentation on Banking Regulation, Supervision and Payment Systems. Additional Director,  Qazi Shoaib Ahmed spoke on Development Finance and Financial Inclusion whereas Additional Director,  Muhammed Amin Khan Lodhi discussed Financial Markets.