1. Overview
The Centre of Excellence in Fintech (CoE-FinTech) at CBFS was established in December 2022 to serve as a national platform for advancing FinTech education, training, research, consultancy, and awareness in Oman.
Recognizing the global impact of financial innovation, CBFS launched the Centre to strengthen Oman’s capabilities in digital finance, aligned with the key pillars of Oman Vision 2040:
- Economic Leadership and Management
- Labor Market and Employment Development
- Education, Learning, Scientific Research, and Capabilities
Vision:
To be locally recognized for distinctive excellence in education, training, research, and consultancy, and as a catalyst for the development of FinTech in Oman.
Mission:
The Centre aims to play a central role in advancing FinTech in the Sultanate of Oman by:
- Enriching FinTech research through collaboration with local, regional, and international institutions.
- Providing training, professional development, and certification programs.
- Offering expert consultancy services to institutions embracing financial technologies.
- Raising public and sector-wide awareness about the strategic importance of FinTech for Oman’s economy.
2. Achievements and Progress
1. The FinTech Professional Certificate
· First-of-its-kind in the region:
Launched in collaboration with the Central Bank of Oman to meet the sector’s emerging needs.
· Program Structure:
Duration: Two academic semesters.
Structure: Seven specialized modules covering FinTech innovation, regulation, cybersecurity, AI, and strategy.
Delivery: Blended learning with academic rigor and real-world application.
· International Expertise:
Delivered by a combination of international trainers, academic experts, and industry practitioners, ensuring global best practices.
· Specialization Tracks:
Two tracks available: Technical and Leadership, allowing learners to focus on their career development.
· Graduate Outcomes:
First batch: 26 students
Second batch: 24 students graduating in May 2025
Participants represent a diverse range of sectors including banking, insurance, telecommunications, and government.
· Strategic Alignment:
Contributes directly to national goals for digital transformation, innovation capacity building, and economic diversification.
2. Broader Activities and Contributions
· Research & Thought Leadership:
Encouraging applied research in FinTech through collaborations with universities and industry partners.
· Training and Awareness:
Conducting workshops, executive sessions, and public seminars to broaden understanding of FinTech risks, opportunities, and best practices.