CSA introduces interfaith harmony as core subject in its training

Community-based programmes have been introduced to promote interfaith understanding

By Asif Mehmood Butt

March 22, 2025

The establishment division building can be seen in this picture. — Establishment division website/File

LAHORE: The Pakistan Civil Services Academy (CSA), for the first time, has incorporated “interfaith harmony” as a dedicated subject in the 52nd Common Training Programme (CTP), fostering a culture of tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect.

Community-based programmes have been introduced to promote community engagement and interfaith understanding, enabling probationary officers to interact with diverse faith communities.

This is a significant step towards promoting inclusivity, mutual respect, and interfaith dialogue, embodying the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and adhering to the Constitution of Pakistan and Principle of Policy.

The CSA’s Interfaith Harmony Society organised several events, including the Meesaq-e-Muhabbat Iftar dinner, which brought together people from diverse faith backgrounds.

Distinguished guests, including Sohail Ahmad Raza, Parshand Singh, Islamic Ideology Council Chairman Dr Raghib Naeemi , Mrs. Najmi Saleem, Asim George, Zimran Azim, Ramish Ch, Professor Dr. Keung Chul Jeong, and Maulana Muhammad Shafique, attended the event.

The CSA’s Interfaith Harmony Society has also developed a mobile application for the minorities under the director general’s vision of “Khidmat-un-Nas”.

Other initiatives include cultural exchanges, visits to places of worship, and a Christmas visit to several churches by probationary officers. Teerath Kumar, a probationary officer of 52nd CTP, emerged as an exemplary model of inclusivity, highlighting CSA’s effective approach.

Notably, only 16 seats have been secured by minorities in civil service exams during the recent past. To address the accessibility challenges faced by minority students of educated families, the CSA proposes to submit a comprehensive plan to the government of Pakistan and the Establishment Division for a 2-month National Outreach Programme for Minorities.

This proposed programme aims to provide a platform for minority students to prepare for civil service exams, bridging the gap in representation and promoting diversity and inclusivity in Pakistan’s civil service.

The programme will cater to the needs of minority communities, addressing the challenges faced by them in accessing civil service opportunities.