Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has partnered with Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank, to launch the Meezan Visa Student Debit Card—an initiative that aims to empower Pakistan’s student population by enhancing their access to secure, convenient, and rewarding financial services. This card is a major step in promoting financial inclusion among Pakistan’s youth and is set to serve as a gateway to the world of digital finance for students aged 18 to 24 years.
The card, launched on January 23, 2025, is specifically designed for university students and will be available free of cost to Meezan Asaan Student Account holders. This special account is tailored to meet the unique financial needs of students, providing a comprehensive platform for managing finances in a way that is both accessible and affordable. The Meezan Visa Student Debit Card aims to equip students with the tools to manage their finances securely while enabling them to make online and offline purchases with ease.
Visa’s Regional President for Central Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA), Andrew Torre, and Irfan Siddiqui, the Founding President and CEO of Meezan Bank, unveiled the card with the goal of fostering financial inclusion among Pakistan’s youth. With over 2.4 million students currently enrolled in higher education institutions across Pakistan, the initiative holds significant potential to make a positive impact on the country’s youth, many of whom are already digitally engaged.
In a statement, Umar Khan, Visa’s Country Manager for Pakistan & Afghanistan, emphasized the importance of empowering youth with financial tools that will help them develop responsible financial habits. This collaboration is in line with Pakistan’s Vision 2025, which aims to harness the economic potential of the country’s large youth population. By providing students with secure and accessible financial solutions, Visa and Meezan Bank hope to help them participate more fully in the economy and contribute to the nation’s growth.
The launch of this student debit card is not only a significant step toward financial inclusion in Pakistan but also an opportunity for students to learn about financial literacy from an early age. Irfan Siddiqui, President, and CEO of Meezan Bank, highlighted the importance of this partnership in providing students with the tools to manage their finances and build a secure future. “This initiative is an important milestone in our commitment to empowering Pakistan’s youth and supporting their financial well-being,” he said.
With Pakistan’s financial inclusion rate currently standing at just 21%, initiatives like the Meezan Visa Student Debit Card are crucial in bridging the gap and bringing more people into the formal financial system. By equipping students with digital financial tools, Visa and Meezan Bank are playing a vital role in realizing the economic potential of Pakistan’s youth and fostering a more financially inclusive nation.
As the partnership unfolds, the Meezan Visa Student Debit Card is expected to provide students with greater control over their finances, enabling them to make informed financial decisions and contribute to a brighter, more secure future.
