Awareness on Islamic Banking: An Investigation on Women Entrepreneurs in Quetta

Abstract

This study creates the profile of women entrepreneurs in Quetta city and examines their awareness level regarding Islamic banking and its products. The study is descriptive in nature and survey questionnaire was used for data collection. The data from 106 women entrepreneurs were collected who are engaged in multiple business activities in Quetta city. From the results it has been found that majority of the women entrepreneurs (i.e., 60%) knew about the term, Islamic banking but the sample size trimmed down as the research questions moved to awareness about Islamic principles, Shariah board, Islamic banking products, Islamic modes of finance and comparison of Islamic banking with conventional banking. It was found that only 10 (out of 106) women entrepreneurs are highly aware about Islamic banking, Islamic principles, Shariah board, Islamic banking products, and Islamic modes of finance. This study suggests that Islamic banks, scholars, and academicians should collaborate to enhance the awareness by arranging awareness campaigns, workshops, seminars, and training sessions on Islamic banking and its products among women entrepreneurs.