The Civil Services Academy (CSA) launched its flagship National Outreach Program for Minority CSS Aspirants, a comprehensive initiative designed to promote inclusivity and enhance representation of minority communities in Pakistan’s civil services. This three-phased program aims to address systemic gaps and enable equal access to public sector careers for minority aspirants.

The program’s structure is as follows: Phase I comprises awareness sessions across 14 universities nationwide, targeting minority students and providing them with essential information about the CSS examination and career opportunities in civil services. Phase II involves a one-month residential orientation course, launched simultaneously, which will equip participants with foundational knowledge and skills required for the CSS examination. Phase III will feature a four-month intensive preparatory program in 2026, tailored to provide minority aspirants with advanced training, confidence, and resources necessary to compete effectively in the CSS examination.

By providing targeted support and resources, the National Outreach Program seeks to empower minority aspirants and increase their representation in Pakistan’s civil services, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and inclusive public sector.

Federal Minister for Law, Justice, and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazir Tarar, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he emphasized that the constitutional articles protecting minority rights are not merely symbolic, but binding guarantees of equality, freedom, and non-discrimination. Referring to Article 36 of the Constitution, he reaffirmed the state’s responsibility to protect and promote the rights of minority communities and commended CSA for translating these principles into practical action.

Senator Tarar underscored the significance of inclusive nation-building and stated that Pakistan’s diversity is its strength. “We are all Pakistanis, whether part of the majority or a minority. Our collective identity must override divisions,” he said. Referring to the recent Special CSS exam, where only 16 out of 121 seats for minorities were filled, the Minister highlighted the urgency of initiatives like this to bridge long-standing gaps in representation.

He also acknowledged the symbolic and practical importance of institutions like CSA in fostering the next generation of nation-builders and urged young aspirants to embrace this opportunity with determination and responsibility. “You have not been granted a favor—you’ve been given a platform to claim your constitutional right to public service,” he remarked.

The ceremony was attended by Members of Parliament, senior bureaucrats, CSA alumni, and human rights advocates. Patron-in-Chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council, Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, advocated for a shift from the term “minority” to “non-Muslim” and called for raising the age limit for CSS aspirants to 35, particularly for candidates from marginalized backgrounds. State Minister for Political Affairs Talha Burki, Punjab Human Rights Secretary Farid Ahmad Tarar, and Member of the National Commission for Human Rights Punjab Nadeem Ashraf were also present at the ceremony.

As a gesture of appreciation, the Director General of CSA presented a shield to the Chief Guest. The event concluded with a networking session and refreshments.