Kafa'a | KIBS

Kafa’a is a strategic initiative launched by the Central Bank of Kuwait in cooperation with KIBS and Kuwaiti banks to develop highly qualified national talent for the banking and financial sector.

Through a structured portfolio of programs, scholarships and research initiatives, Kafa’a supports talent development across all career stages, from entry-level graduates to specialized professionals and executive leaders.

Kafa’a programs are designed to support professionals at different stages of their career journey:

Early Career – Building foundational knowledge and entry into the sector
Specialization – Developing deep expertise in key disciplines
Leadership – Preparing high-potential talent for executive roles

119 Graduates

5 Cohorts

An intensive program designed to build national cybersecurity capabilities through hands-on technical training, global certifications and real-world application.

Who should join

Cybersecurity Leaders Program: Entry-level to mid-career Kuwaiti professionals seeking to specialize in the field of cybersecurity
View Program

Advanced Cybersecurity Leaders Program: Experienced Kuwaiti cybersecurity professionals
View Program

175 Graduates

6 Cohorts

A specialized program focused on Shariah audit and compliance within Islamic financial institutions.

Who should join
Islamic finance professionals, auditors, regulators and graduates specializing in Shariah, accounting, and Islamic economics.

View Program

34 Graduates

9 Cohorts

Scholarship opportunities supporting Kuwaiti talent through two pathways: international postgraduate studies for banking professionals and locally delivered MBA programs for eligible Kuwaiti nationals.

Who should join

International scholarship: For employees at member banks
View Program

Local scholarship: Kuwaiti nationals
View Program

57 Graduates

4 Cohorts

An advanced program designed to strengthen strategic risk management capabilities and develop national talent aligned with global industry practices.

Who should join
Mid-level and senior professionals working in risk management across banking and related sectors.

View Program

288 Graduates

12 Cohorts

A foundational development program that prepares fresh Kuwaiti graduates for careers in the banking sector through structured learning and practical exposure.

Who should join
Fresh university graduates

View Program

756 Graduates

16 Cohorts

A prestigious executive program focused on strategic leadership, innovation, and navigating the evolving financial landscape.

Who should join
Executive leaders within the banking and financial sectors.

View Program

13 Winners

5 Cycles

An initiative aimed at encouraging scientific research among Kuwaiti youth and promoting research in the financial, banking, and economic fields in Kuwait.

Who should join
Students and young graduates holding bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral level

View Program