The Civil Services Academy (CSA) Lahore hosted annual dinner for probationers of the 53rd Common Training Program (CTP), bringing together officers, faculty members, senior management and families of the probationers from across the country, here on Saturday.
CSA Director Genera Farhan Aziz Khawaja was the chief guest on the occasion.
Parents and family members of probationers attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, DG Farhan Aziz Khawaja said that the progress and transformation witnessed among the probationary officers was the result of collective effort, institutional commitment and the unwavering dedication of young officers, rather than the contribution of any single individual. He said that the achievements on display were a product of teamwork, the professionalism of the faculty, the tireless efforts of additional and deputy directors, the strategic guidance of academic group-in-charges, and the passion, discipline and resolve of the probationers.
The DG paid special tribute to parents and families, acknowledging their sacrifices in sending their sons and daughters from far-flung areas of the country to join the civil services and serve Pakistan. He described the additional and deputy directors and academic group-in-charges as the “heart and soul” of the Common Training Program.
DG Farhan Aziz Khawaja also highlighted the role of Additional Directors, Deputy directors and chief instructors. , appreciating thier contribution to training reforms and effective program management, professionalism, integrity, and proactive approach, and lauded the administrative, finance, security and medical staff for ensuring smooth operations of the academy round the clock.
Recalling his earlier visit to Balochistan, the DG said he had assured parents that CSA would transform their children into capable, confident and responsible public servants. “What you witness today is the fulfillment of that commitment,” he remarked. He said the probationers were given exposure to key policy corridors, administrative institutions and field environments in Islamabad and Lahore to prepare them for future leadership roles in governance and public policy. “These young officers have consciously chosen to serve Pakistan and strengthen the federation. Our investment in their training and exposure is aimed at preparing them to respond to national challenges and operate effectively in a global public policy environment,” he added.
The DG, addressing the parents, said the honour and success they were witnessing reflected both divine blessings and the hard work, dedication and moral upbringing of families. He urged probationers to uphold values of integrity, discipline and selfless service throughout their careers.
The DG said that the CSA was moving towards a future centered on digital governance, professional development, and officer well-being. Major initiatives include the digitalization of records, financial and career literacy programs, sustainability projects in collaboration with Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC), and cultural exposure journeys. He added that plans also feature the establishment of an Archive Wing to preserve institutional memory, the Abdullah Sumbal Wellness Facilitation Centre to support holistic well-being, and a modern Podcast Room to foster dialogue, learning, and thought leadership.
On the occasion, Director (Common Training Programme) Dr. Syed Shabbir Akbar Zaidi informed that the 53rd CTP comprises 136 probationers, including 74 female and 62 male officers. He said 52 probationers are from Balochistan, 46 from Sindh, 27 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 11 from Punjab, reflecting national diversity and inclusion.
Dr Zaidi said public administration faced complex and evolving challenges, requiring modern training methods and innovative pedagogical approaches. He emphasized that experiential learning was vital for professional growth, and CSA was ensuring such opportunities as part of the training framework.
Director (Admin & Finance) Muhammad Bilal Akram said the academy was providing state-of-the-art educational facilities and a conducive learning environment, while implementing administrative initiatives to facilitate academic as well as co-curricular activities. He said that the CSA was taking comprehensive measures to enhance institutional efficiency and strengthen the learning outcomes of probationary officers. He emphasized that the Academy remains firmly committed to continuous improvement, capacity building, and the delivery of high-quality training aligned with the evolving demands of public service.
Earlier, a documentary highlighting the academic, physical and field training journey of the 53rd CTP was screened during the event, while a prize distribution ceremony was also held, during which Mahnoor Baloch, Mohman Shahdab and Zoha Tiwana and various others were awarded for outstanding performance.