The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan organised a session titled “The role of technology and talent in financial transformation” during the second day of the 49th International Collegiate Programming Contest world final, which is being held in Azerbaijan for the first time with the central bank’s partnership. Deputy Governor Vusal Khalilov highlighted skilled human capital as a key driver of technological development and pointed to the professional opportunities that global events such as ICPC can provide to young people. In a panel format, central bank executives discussed the development of Azerbaijan’s payment systems, the promotion of financial technologies and innovation, the role of programming in accelerating digital transformation, and information technology solutions. The session brought together around 100 participants, including students and professionals from information technology, financial technology, and the payment systems sector.