Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I completed my bachelor's in commerce and later pursued CMA Inter in Cost and Management Accounting from ICMAP. Currently, I'm in stage 4, with 2 stages remaining for CMA. I seek your expert advice on its scope in Gulf countries. Additionally, I would like guidance on which industry, such as FMCG, Petroleum, Textile, or Power Generation, would be best suited for my career. Could you also assist me in finalising my specialisation in either Costing, Finance, or Taxation? (Najma Abbass, Lahore)

Ans: After reviewing your academic background and future plans, I suggest considering Power Generation or Energy Conservation after completing your current CMA stage. This sector is emerging and highly demands financial specialists like you for tasks such as developing business proposals, project feasibility, and reports.

Q2: Dear sir, I'm currently pursuing a Masters in Business Administration with a major in Banking and Finance. Can you recommend suitable short courses to enhance my academic background? Although my master's will be completed next year, I'm unsure how to kick start my career.

(Sarmad Imtiaz, Haripur)

Ans: Dear Sarmad, I recommend seeking an internship in a financial institution or bank, even if unpaid. Practical experience gained through an internship will be more effective and valuable than a short course or certificate, enhancing your job prospects significantly.

Q3: Sir, I have recently completed my final exams in Electronic Engineering from NED University, Karachi. I'm uncertain about pursuing an MS, MBA, or any other path. Could you advise which option would be best for me? Should I consider studying abroad, and if so, in which low-cost country? (Anwar Kamal, Karachi)

Ans: Dear Anwar, considering your academic profile, you have two options leading to an MS. After completing your MS, gain at least 2-3 years of practical experience before pursuing an MBA. However, based on your current profile, I suggest pursuing a PG degree in Mechatronics or Communication Engineering with a specialisation in wireless and mobile communication. These degrees are in high demand globally and will provide excellent prospects both in Pakistan and abroad.

Q4: Dear Mr Abidi, I'm currently studying Town Planning Engineering (BS) at the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore. Could you advise on the prospects of this degree in Pakistan or abroad? Additionally, if I intend to pursue an MS after this degree, what would you recommend?

(Suleman Mansoor- Sheikhupura)

Ans: Dear Suleman, the degree you are pursuing is exceptional. It holds significant potential, both in Pakistan and abroad, especially in the Middle East. I suggest considering topping up your degree with Construction Management, which will give you a competitive edge in this field.

(Syed Azhar Husnain Abidi is a renowned educationist in Pakistan, with more than 20 years of experience as provider of education counselling services. He has represented Pakistan in over 100 national and international seminars, conferences and fora. He is a recipient of the most coveted civil award Tamgha-e-Imtiaz).