Gillani for adopting int’l best practices to improve governance

ISLAMABAD: Acting President Yousuf Raza Gillani has called for adopting international best practices, focusing on innovation, and using the latest technology to improve governance in Pakistan.

He underscored the need for embracing digital governance, data-driven decision-making, and using artificial intelligence to improve service delivery. He expressed these views while talking to participants of the 36th Senior Management Course of the National Institute of Public Administration, Karachi, who called on him, at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Friday. Gillani highlighted that Pakistan faced multiple challenges including economic issues, high inflation, rising population, unemployment, climate change and social injustice. The bureaucracy needs to play a proactive and constructive role in helping address various challenges faced by the country.

He emphasised the need to position Pakistan internationally as a competitive and forward-thinking nation, while also ensuring that every citizen benefitted from the fruits of policies.

The bureaucracy should build strong networks, both within the government and with external stakeholders, to find sustainable solutions to Pakistan’s socio-economic problems. Civil servants are required to be problem solvers, innovators, and leaders who can help the governments steer the country out of its present socio-economic and governance challenges.

He advised the bureaucrats to adopt a service-oriented attitude, adding that government service required empathy, humility, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of others. The world is constantly evolving, and civil servants need to evolve with it. Civil servants should seek out knowledge, equip themselves with the latest skills and tools, stay informed about global trends and developments, and continue refining their skills. “You must adopt ethical governance and treat the public humanely,” he added.

Replying to a question, he said the provinces had been given more rights and funds after the 18th Amendment and the NFC Award. Answering a question about the 26th Constitutional Amendment, he said that it was the prerogative of the parliament to amend the Constitution, keeping in view the best interest of the country. It is not appropriate for any other country to comment upon and interfere in Pakistan’s internal matters.

Talking about terrorist incidents in Balochistan, he said anti-Pakistan elements were against the development and prosperity of the province and making deliberate efforts to discourage investors from investing in Pakistan. Balochistan is an important province and during his tenure as prime minister, he initiated the Aaghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan Pact and ensured its implementation.