Lahore: A significant and thought-provoking seminar titled “Pakistan 2030: Challenges, Opportunities, and New Directions” was held at Superior University, Lahore, under the auspices of the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP).
The seminar commenced with opening remarks by Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman, Chairman of APSUP, who emphasized the crucial role of private sector institutions in higher education. He stated that the active participation of private universities is essential for national development and progress.
The Chief Guest, Mian Amer Mehmood, Chairman of the Punjab Group of Colleges, addressed the audience and highlighted the urgent need for the creation of new provinces in Pakistan. He congratulated Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman for organizing the seminar and praised his leadership in raising awareness on the issue of administrative reforms.
Mian Amer Mehmood argued that the current federal structure is insufficient, pointing out that while the United States has 50 states under a federal system, Pakistan has only four federal units. He proposed that Pakistan’s 33 divisions should be upgraded to provincial status to bring governance closer to the people and make public service delivery more efficient and transparent.
He added that smaller provinces would help reduce opportunities for corruption and improve overall governance. He presented a detailed framework for this proposed reform under the APSUP platform.
Highlighting the importance of good governance and leadership, Mian Amer Mehmood stressed that Pakistan’s progress depends on systemic reforms, especially amid the current crises. He noted that local governments, empowered by provincial structures, are better suited to address issues like sanitation, infrastructure, and basic public services at the grassroots level.
Reflecting on historical governance models, he stated that while monarchies taxed people to fund wars, modern democracies derive power from the people, and every institution must be held accountable. “Governments are run through policies, not just good intentions,” he said, underlining that it is the state’s responsibility to ensure employment, infrastructure, and citizen welfare.
The seminar saw enthusiastic participation from students, who engaged in an interactive Q&A session, demonstrating keen interest and awareness of the issues discussed.
