Three-week CSA course equips officers for sub-divisional enforcement roles

LAHORE: A landmark event took place at the prestigious Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) campus of the Civil Services Academy (CSA) in Lahore, as the first-ever batch of officers from the Punjab Enforcement Regulatory Authority (PERA) passed out after successfully completing their specialised training course.

The ceremony marked a historic milestone, as it was the first time CSA, renowned for training officers from Pakistan’s civil service groups, trained officers from a provincial enforcement body.

The ceremony celebrated the successful completion of the three-week intensive training programme undertaken by 53 officers, who are now ready to assume vital roles within the newly formed PERA.

The training course, which commenced on February 10, 2025, was designed to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to execute their duties as sub-divisional enforcement officers (SDEOs) under the Punjab Enforcement Regulatory Authority Act.

The programme not only focused on academic knowledge but also included hands-on, practical experiences, preparing the officers to navigate the complex demands of grassroots enforcement, administration, and governance.

The training involved an in-depth study of critical legal frameworks, including the Code of Criminal Procedure, the Civil Procedure Code, and the Evidence Act, which are essential for carrying out enforcement duties at the tehsil and district levels.

Additionally, the practical components of the programme prepared the officers for real-world challenges by teaching them how to manage enforcement stations, conduct investigations, and implement regulations effectively. Instructors emphasised leadership and operational command, key skills needed for the officers to manage their responsibilities with efficiency and authority.

The passing-out ceremony, which was attended by a distinguished gathering of senior civil servants commended the efforts of Sajid Mahmood Chohan, Director PAS Campus and Muhammad Abrahim Shah, Deputy Director PAS Campus for effectively conducting the training course at very short notice.

Among the key dignitaries in attendance were Farhan Aziz Khawaja, Director General of the Civil Services Academy, a senior BS-22 officer of the Pakistan Administrative Service, Farrukh Atiq Khan, Director General of PERA and Noor-ul-Amin Mengal, the Home Secretary of Punjab, who served as the chief guest at the event. In keeping with tradition, the ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem. A brief video presentation captured the diverse and enriching experiences of the training course, reflecting the dedication and determination of the officers throughout their academic and practical endeavours.

The ceremony culminated in the distribution of certificates and awards to the top-performing officers. Mr. Mohsan Iqbal was presented with the Director General’s Shield for Best Conduct, while Ms. Ama tu Salam received the coveted Director General’s Shield for Best Participant.

The creation of PERA is a visionary initiative by the Punjab government aimed at enhancing administrative governance and strengthening enforcement capabilities across the province. As a new regulatory authority, PERA is tasked with crucial functions at the tehsil and district levels, including price control, anti-hoarding measures, and anti-profiteering efforts.

The authority’s overarching goal is to ensure that essential administrative duties are carried out effectively and efficiently, empowering local officers to take decisive action in safeguarding public welfare. PERA is headed by the chief minister of Punjab, with the chief secretary serving as the vice-chairman, ensuring a strong, high-level governance framework to steer its operations.

With its innovative approach to enforcement and regulation, PERA aims to be a cornerstone in the future of Punjab’s administrative landscape, furthering the government’s goals of good governance and effective public service.