CM for implementing Singapore’s governance model in Sindh

During his meeting with Stanford University’s Executive Director Bill Burnett on Thursday, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah discussed governance, education, human development and enhancing public services, emphasising the importance of creating a service structure focused on solving public problems by improving governance.

The meeting held at the CM House was a brainstorming session attended by provincial ministers Sharjeel Memon, Dr Azra Pechuho, Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Jam Khan Shoro, Sardar Shah and Jam Ikramullah Dharejo, CM’s Principal Secretary Agha Wasif, provincial secretaries, IBA Karachi Executive Director Dr Akbar Zaidi and other representatives, including Azam Ali, Junaid Aziz, Abira and Usman Nazir.

The CM said his government has set improving governance as a top priority. Burnett shared insights from his work on Singapore’s civil service reforms, and highlighted the potential of modern technology in governance.

“Digital platforms can provide immediate solutions to public issues and simplify access to services,” he said, and also pointed out the pervasive use of mobile phones in Pakistan as an opportunity for developing digital tools.

Acknowledging the challenges of Karachi’s traffic, Burnett observed: “While there’s room for improvement, addressing human behaviour like reckless driving and illegal parking is equally important.”

The CM expressed a desire to implement successful governance models like Singapore’s in Sindh. “We need an effective and robust system to deliver public services efficiently.” Burnett proposed a modern civil service model for Sindh, and stressed the importance of leveraging technology to improve governance. The CM underscored the value of education and its role in empowering communities. “Knowledge is power, and it’s crucial to focus on educational advancement.”

Burnett also appreciated public-private partnership projects in Sindh, highlighting their role in economic development. “Driving economic growth requires the active involvement of the private sector.”

He emphasised the importance of attracting global talent. He proudly shared that 41 scholars from Sindh, educated abroad, have become faculty members at Stanford University. The meeting reinforced the Sindh government’s commitment to digital transformation, education and innovative governance to address public challenges effectively. It concluded with a mutual agreement on enhancing collaboration between Stanford University, IBA Karachi and the Sindh government.