Jordan launches region’s first Fintech Academy, applied lab to drive digital economy

AMMAN — The Institute of Banking Studies (IBS) has officially inaugurated the headquarters of the Jordan Fintech Academy and its dedicated Fintech Lab, marking a major milestone in the implementation of the Kingdom’s Economic Modernization Vision (EMV) for 2026–2029.

Governor of the Central Bank of Jordan and Chairman of the IBS Board Adel Sharkas said the launch reflects a comprehensive national effort to build capacity in financial technology and innovation.

He described the Academy and its lab as the first of their kind locally and regionally, positioning them as a foundational pillar for digital transformation across Jordan’s banking and financial sectors.

Sharkas said the Academy is designed to operate as a specialised national platform that creates an environment conducive to innovation. Its primary mission is to foster a culture of creativity and prepare a new generation of talent capable of leading financial transformation, directly aligned with the objectives of the government’s executive programme.

The newly launched Fintech Lab will play a central role in the Academy’s educational framework. It offers an interactive environment that bridges theory and practice, enabling trainees to develop innovative digital financial solutions and strengthening the readiness of specialised financial talent.

Director General of the Institute of Banking Studies Riad Hindawi announced that the Academy’s 2026 training plan was unveiled at the opening. The curriculum will focus on advanced programmes that meet international standards, covering artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, blockchain, digital payments, and broader digital transformation strategies.

The new facility includes the Fintech Lab alongside smart training rooms equipped with the latest technologies, creating an integrated learning environment. These spaces are designed to help trainees acquire advanced technical skills aligned with the evolving demands of both local and global labour markets.

The inauguration forms part of IBS’s broader strategy to support the development of a competitive digital economy and reinforce Jordan’s position as a regional hub for financial technology and innovation.