The cashless university initiative at CECOS University Peshawar marks a major step forward in Pakistan’s digital education and financial inclusion journey. In collaboration with Zindigi powered by JS Bank, CECOS is set to become Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s first fully cashless and financially inclusive university, setting a new benchmark for campuses across the country.
This initiative aims to integrate digital banking directly into student life, ensuring that every enrolled student gains access to formal financial services from day one. By combining education with modern financial tools, the project reflects a growing commitment to empowering youth through technology and innovation.
A Fully Digital Campus Experience
Under the cashless university initiative, every student at CECOS University will receive a fully functional bank account along with a personalized Zindigi Debit Card. This ensures that students are not only account holders but active participants in the formal banking system.
To support this transition, the campus will be equipped with modern digital payment infrastructure, including POS terminals and QR-code-based payment options. Students will be able to make seamless cashless payments at cafeterias, bookstores, and other on-campus facilities. Over time, cash usage will be phased out entirely, creating a secure and efficient digital financial ecosystem.
Advancing Financial Inclusion for Students
One of the most impactful aspects of the cashless university initiative is its focus on financial inclusion. In Pakistan, many young people enter adulthood without access to banking services or basic financial literacy. By making banking access mandatory and integrated into campus life, this initiative ensures that students develop healthy financial habits early.
The project also promotes digital literacy by encouraging the use of secure digital payment methods. As students manage accounts, use debit cards, and interact with cashless systems, they gain practical skills that will benefit them long after graduation.
Leadership Vision Behind the Initiative
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Noman Azhar, Chief Officer of Zindigi, highlighted the long-term importance of this transformation. He emphasized that universities are where lifelong financial behaviors are formed. By enabling a fully cashless and inclusive campus, the initiative goes beyond convenience and focuses on shaping how an entire generation interacts with money and the formal economy.
From the university’s perspective, Vice Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Mohsin Khan described the milestone as a reflection of CECOS University’s commitment to innovation and global standards. He noted that becoming the first university in KPK to adopt such a bold digital model represents the beginning of a future-ready campus experience.
Setting a National Example
The cashless university initiative at CECOS is not just a local achievement; it has national significance. As higher education institutions across Pakistan explore ways to modernize operations and improve student services, this collaboration provides a practical model that can be replicated nationwide.
By integrating banking, payments, and campus services into a single digital ecosystem, universities can reduce inefficiencies, improve transparency, and enhance overall student experience. This approach also aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals of digital transformation and financial inclusion.
Technology, Convenience, and Security
A cashless campus offers more than just convenience. Digital transactions reduce risks associated with cash handling, improve record-keeping, and enhance financial security. Students benefit from faster payments, while the institution gains better oversight of financial flows.
Through the cashless university initiative, students can focus more on academics and campus life without worrying about carrying cash. At the same time, digital systems make it easier to track expenses and manage finances responsibly.
Collaboration Driving Change
The success of this initiative reflects strong collaboration between academia and the financial technology sector. Senior leadership from both Zindigi and CECOS University attended the ceremony, underscoring the shared commitment to innovation and inclusion.
This partnership demonstrates how universities and fintech organizations can work together to address real-world challenges, such as limited access to banking and low financial literacy among youth.
A Future-Ready Campus Ecosystem
As Pakistan moves toward a digital economy, initiatives like this play a crucial role in preparing the next generation. The cashless university initiative ensures that students graduate not only with academic knowledge but also with practical financial skills suited for a modern, technology-driven world.
By reimagining student life through digital empowerment, CECOS University and Zindigi are setting a powerful example. Their collaboration establishes a new standard for higher education institutions—one that prioritizes inclusion, innovation, and readiness for the future.
