Dera Ismail Khan: Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) and Gomal University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen industry–academia collaboration, promote student development, and enhance access to modern financial services for the university and its affiliated institutions.
The MoU aims to create opportunities for students, faculty, and staff through capacity-building programs, internships, training initiatives, and improved banking facilities. The partnership is also expected to support financial inclusion and career development, particularly for students from underserved regions.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Vice Chancellor Gomal University Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Niamat Ullah Babar, along with other senior university officials and representatives of ZTBL.
Speaking on the occasion, President and CEO of ZTBL, Mr. Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti, said the bank is committed to empowering youth and strengthening the professional talent pool. He shared that ZTBL has provided employment to more than 600 fresh graduates and postgraduates over the past two years, while recruitment of a fresh batch of 300 Mobile Credit Officers (MCOs)/OG-IIIs is currently underway. He added that with a network of over 500 branches, ZTBL is well-positioned to offer financial access, training, and career opportunities to students across the country.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal welcomed the initiative, stating that the MoU represents a significant step toward bridging the gap between academic learning and practical skills. He noted that Gomal University would actively encourage students to participate in ZTBL’s internship and training programs and facilitate the use of ZTBL’s banking services across the university.
During the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor also proposed collaboration in the areas of efficient water resource management and rainwater utilization for agriculture. In response, the President and CEO of ZTBL assured the bank’s full support and cooperation.
Both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership will deliver long-term benefits and strengthen industry–academia linkages for the development of youth and the broader community.
