Certified Islamic Microfinance Professional (CIMP)

The Certified Islamic Microfinance Professional (CIMP) program is a distinguished certification tailored to individuals aiming to gain advanced knowledge and expertise in the specialized domain of Islamic microfinance. Islamic microfinance operates on principles that adhere to Shariah law, requiring a deep understanding of both financial principles and Islamic ethics to effectively serve marginalized communities and promote financial inclusion. The CIMP program provides an all-encompassing curriculum covering Islamic finance principles, microfinance operations, regulatory compliance, and ethical standards. Graduates are equipped to excel in roles demanding precision and proficiency in Islamic microfinance.

Certification Program Objectives:

Upon completing the Certified Islamic Microfinance Professional (CIMP) program, participants will be able to:

  • Master Islamic Finance Fundamentals: Develop a profound understanding of the foundational principles of Islamic finance, with a focus on their application in microfinance.
  • Implement Shariah-Compliant Microfinance Solutions: Proficiently design microfinance products and services that adhere to Shariah law, promoting financial inclusion among underserved communities.
  • Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Understand and adhere to regulatory requirements related to Islamic microfinance, including compliance with Shariah law and ethical standards.
  • Uphold Ethical Standards: Demonstrate ethical conduct and professional integrity in all aspects of Islamic microfinance operations.
  • Empower Marginalized Communities: Contribute to the empowerment of marginalized communities by providing ethical and inclusive financial services.

Certification Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree

And/or

  • 2 – 5 years of relevant work experience

Certifying Examination:

  • To be certified as CIMP, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by AIBM.
  • The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
  • Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.

Certification Modules:

  1. Islamic Finance Fundamentals
  2. Microfinance Operations and Products
  3. Regulatory Compliance in Islamic Microfinance
  4. Ethical Standards in Microfinance
  5. Risk Management in Islamic Microfinance
  6. Technology and Innovation in Islamic Microfinance

* The modules of the certification are constantly updated and are subject to change.

Who Should Do This Certification:

The Certified Islamic Microfinance Professional (CIMP) certification is highly beneficial for professionals across various roles and industries, including:

  • Microfinance Practitioners: Professionals actively engaged in microfinance operations, seeking to deepen their understanding of Islamic microfinance principles and enhance their capacity to serve marginalized communities.
  • Banking and Finance Professionals: Banking and finance professionals looking to specialize in ethical microfinance operations within the framework of Islamic finance.
  • Regulatory and Compliance Officers: Professionals responsible for ensuring that microfinance practices comply with Shariah law and regulatory standards.
  • Development Practitioners: Individuals working in the field of development and poverty alleviation interested in utilizing Islamic microfinance as a tool for social and economic transformation.
  • Entrepreneurs and Social Innovators: Individuals interested in launching or managing Islamic microfinance initiatives to empower underserved communities.
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Professionals working with NGOs focused on financial inclusion and poverty reduction through ethical microfinance.

The CIMP certification equips professionals with specialized knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of Islamic microfinance. Whether you are already involved in microfinance or seeking to enter this specialized domain, the CIMP program provides the expertise required to champion financial inclusion and empower marginalized communities through ethical and Shariah-compliant microfinance solutions.