MENATSA Group, a global conglomerate with a diverse portfolio of businesses operating in the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey and the South Asian region recently teamed up with First Global Knowledge Centre (FGKC) to provide internationally recognized qualifications in Islamic Banking and Finance to students in the Gulf region.

The specialized programmes will target students and those already employed in the sector who wish to learn more about Islamic Finance. The Islamic Finance Qualification (IFQ) that they receive is of an internationally recognized standard awarded by the Securities & Investment Institute (SII), UK. Surrounded by state-of-the-art office towers, research and development zones, educational institutions, luxury apartments, villas, hotels, healthcare services and a full spectrum of lifestyle facilities, those studying with MENATSA T&D will enjoy access to premium facilities that could greatly facilitate their education.

Commenting on the MoU, Mr. Damian Brown, Managing Director of MENATSA T&D said "Over the past several years, MENATSA T&D has successfully developed leaders in various industry disciplines.
We feel honoured to offer professional education to Qatar-based institutions and their employees through this MoU, which reflects our commitment to forge strategic alliances with top global performers.

"When entering into an alliance," he continued, "it is crucial for both partners to share a common vision, goal and, interest. Our collaboration exemplifies the emphasis FGKC places on educational development and investment in human capital". M.H.M.Faizer, Strategic Advisor, First Global Group of which FGKC is a subsidiary said: "This relationship will be a launching pad to bring Sri Lankan expertise in the field of Islamic Banking and Finance to the Qatari market as well as explore other countries in the Middle East".

Sahal Alavi, the Regional head of FGKC who spearheaded the move with FGKC Business Development Executive Hikam Hussain added: "During the past 6 months we have been building up the appetite for the Islamic Finance Qualification (IFQ) in Qatar and a partner like MENATSA will definitely give that marketing mileage along with FGKC's expertise in the training and career development field".

MENATSA's Training & Development is one of the region's leading training and development specialists and are strategically placed in the Middle East in Doha. It has access to a selection of five star training suites around the region and provides high-quality, competitive, educational programmes for personal and professional development.

It has also built a reputation for supplying cost effective training courses in a range of subjects, and are acknowledged as experts in Operational and Financial Services training. FGKC is a pioneer in Islamic Banking and Finance training courses that cater to both national and international demands for Islamic Banking and Finance professionals.

It has tied up with the prestigious Securities & Investment Institute, London to offer the Islamic Finance Qualifications (IFQ), SII - UK, in Sri Lanka, Qatar, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Maldives.