With the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, we can be grateful for the global vaccination roll-out to reach herd immunity. However, we are not done battling the virus that has changed the ways we dwell with our daily lives. My prayers go out to all of you for being strong amidst challenging times.

In this volume of OIC TODAY, in brief section we highlight current news of different countries. For instance, Turkey’s education system receives massive support from both government and civil society organizations. As a revenue to their national GDP, education institutions are transformed into manufacturing sites, without compromising education by simultaneously conducting online learning aligned to new regulations due to the pandemic.

I would like to take this opportunity to announce that as part of OIC countries, Malaysia has developed the word’s first ISO-level standard (MS2424) as the guidelines for manufacturing of Halal pharmaceuticals which includes manufacturing Halal vaccines. Rest assured that, a high quality, safe and effective vaccines can be sourced out to the world soon.

The cover story section in this issue is an exclusive interview with Dato’ Dr. Azmi Omar, President & CEO, International Centre of Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF). Dato’ Azmi mentioned that we need different mindset and tools to manage Islamic Bank. As such, INCEIF plays an important role in Islamic finance and education. The Islamic bank was established in 1983 in Malaysia and Islamic Banking Act was issued the same year. The act was then amended in 2013 and Islamic Financial Service Act (IFSA) was introduced and is in use to date. The key ingredient for a successful Islamic banking and finance is a strong regulatory framework.

According to Dato’ Azmi, actionbased learning is vital so that students can solve real problems faced by the industry. Therefore, INCEIF is determined to produce graduates for current needs and the future needs based on current and future requirements of the country. Ideally the curriculum should be designed based on those needs otherwise, we may produce unproductive people for the economy. As a result, INCEIF offers continuous online courses to all its students across the globe because education does not stop, and it is important to continue engaging with the students despite the pandemic. Clearly, the impact of education is going to determine the future of Islamic finances.

Finally, in the country focus section, Iran gets a close-up. A country that boasts rich heritage, Iran has a population of over 84 million with major religion being Islam. The Persian culture, tourism and hospitality is at its finest making it in the list of UNESCO World Heritage. Iran’s economy revolves around hydrocarbon, agriculture, and service sectors. The economy is booming and shows growth of 1.3% in 2020. Iran is looking forward to a ‘strategic partnership’ with China which could be beneficial for both parties.

As always, I truly hope you will enjoy reading through the various articles in this issue. I pray for your well-being and stay protected.

Source : OICtoday.biz