A group of early to mid-career officers attended the event, which included policy discussions, hands-on exercises, and networking. The day started with registration, Quran recitation, and a presentation of CSA’s CTP Transformation Videos, underscoring the academy’s efforts to modernize governance training.

Dr Syed Shabbir Akbar Zaidi, Director of Capacity Building, opened the workshop with remarks encouraging young officers to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a habit of lifelong learning.

Interactive training sessions, led by CERP faculty, focused on strengthening officers’ policy evaluation and analytical skills. In particular, “Engaging with Evidence” modules introduced participants to practical tools for evidence-informed decision-making, alongside group activities conducted by CERP and CSA teaching fellows.

Shabeeh Haider Raza from CERP introduced the Survey and Research Track, outlining upcoming research plans and the role officers will play in them. Participants also took part in survey exercises that combined reflection with real-time learning.

A keynote address by Dr Adnan Qadir Khan, Chief Economist at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), was a highlight of the day. He spoke about how the use of evidence can drive meaningful change in public policy, followed by a lively Q&A session.

Mr Farhan Aziz Khawaja, Director-General of CSA, closed the workshop with a keynote speech stressing the need for research and data in effective governance. He also awarded shields to facilitators and contributors before the event concluded with a group photo and networking lunch.

The workshop served as a platform to embed a culture of research within the bureaucracy, aiming to equip civil servants to lead institutional reform with smarter, data-driven policy decisions.