Visa and Meezan Bank Launch Pakistan’s First Student Debit Card

This unique initiative aims to empower Pakistan’s

student population by providing access to secure

convenient, and rewarding financial services

Business Reporter

Karachi: Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, has announced a strategic partnership with Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank, to launch the Meezan Visa Student Debit Card. This unique initiative aims to empower Pakistan’s student population by providing access to secure, convenient, and rewarding financial services.

The Visa Student Debit Card will be available exclusively to eligible university students aged 18 to 24 years, offering a tailored solution for managing finances digitally. This initiative is designed to support the digitization journey of Pakistan’s youth, providing them with the tools to thrive in a digital economy.

Key Features of the Meezan Visa Student Debit Card
The Meezan Visa Student Debit Card, unveiled by Andrew Torre, Visa’s Regional President for Central Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA), and Irfan Siddiqui, Founding President and CEO of Meezan Bank, will be available free of charge to Meezan Asaan Student Accountholders. This account offers a comprehensive platform for students to manage their finances while meeting their unique needs, ensuring both accessibility and affordability.

With over 2.4 million students enrolled in higher education across Pakistan and a financial inclusion rate of just 21%, this partnership has significant potential to drive financial empowerment among Pakistan’s youth. The launch of this card is set for the first quarter of 2025, aiming to boost financial inclusion in Pakistan by reaching digitally engaged students.

Empowering Pakistan’s Youth for a Digital Future
Umar Khan, Country Manager for Visa in Pakistan & Afghanistan, emphasized the importance of providing financial tools to Pakistan’s young population, saying, “We’re proud to partner with Meezan Bank in this financial inclusion initiative. By equipping youth with secure and accessible financial solutions, we enable them to develop responsible financial habits, contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth, and actively participate in the economy. This initiative is part of Visa’s long-term commitment to building a strong financial inclusion foundation for Pakistan.”

Irfan Siddiqui, President and CEO of Meezan Bank, added, “The Meezan Visa Student Debit Card is a milestone in promoting financial inclusion in Pakistan. It provides students with a secure, convenient way to manage their finances, fostering financial literacy and empowering them for a secure and successful future.”

Supporting Pakistan Vision 2025
This collaboration aligns with Pakistan Vision 2025, an initiative by the country’s Ministry of Planning, Development & Reforms, which focuses on harnessing the economic potential of Pakistan’s large youth population. Through this partnership, Visa and Meezan Bank aim to support the vision by offering students access to the financial tools and knowledge needed to take control of their financial futures.

Conclusion
The Meezan Visa Student Debit Card is more than just a debit card; it’s a step towards a more financially inclusive Pakistan. By empowering students to manage their finances digitally, this initiative paves the way for a brighter, more financially secure future for Pakistan’s youth.