EVERY year, the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) conducts Central Superior Services (CSS) exams to recruit civil servants. One needs a bachelor’s degree to appear in the exam. The can-didates passing the written and psycho-logical stages can serve in one of the 12 prestigious groups of Pakistan’s bureau-cracy regardless of their educational background.

The generalised recruitment process for specialised positions, such as assistant superintendent of police, assistant commissioner and tax officer, has been deteriorating the effectiveness of the country’s bureaucracy since the inception of Pakistan. We have seen people serving in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) or Pakistan Audit and Accounts Service (PAAS) with medical and engineering backgrounds, thereby undermining the progression of the institution.

However, finally, the administration of Pakistan is ready with a new structure of competitive exams, known as cluster-based exams. As described in the tentative report, candidates now need a specific degree for certain groups, or must choose optional subjects that align with their desired post. For instance, one needs to opt for criminology for the allocation in the Police Services of Pakistan (PSP).

The report requires cabinet approval for the implementation. It is hoped that the proposed changes in the bureaucratic structure will materialise, transitioning bureaucracy from outdated and stale practices to modern forms of governance.

Mudasir Ahmed
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2025