Wahab calls for individuals to fulfil their societal, civic obligations

Every citizen must serve society and the city that has given them respect and fame. Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab said this on Friday while addressing the inauguration ceremony of a new batch of the CSS Corner at the Frere Hall as the chief guest.

“We must work together to build a better future for the next generation,” he stated. District Central Deputy Commissioner and CSS Corner CEO Taha Saleem, Chief Patron Tariq Mustafa, renowned media personality Sultana Siddiqui, Tariq Fawad, Ali Hassan Sajid and others also spoke at the event.

Wahab emphasised that nations and societies prospered when people took responsibility and fulfilled their duties alongside demanding their rights. “The contributions of teachers, parents and society shape the success of any individual. We must support and promote the efforts of selfless institutions like CSS Corner,” he added.

He underscored that higher education was a right for all irrespective of socioeconomic background, and that knowledge was not anyone’s exclusive property. “Today, many students from underprivileged families are preparing for the CSS exams and securing top positions to serve the country.”

He also stressed the importance of preserving Karachi’s rich history and cultural heritage. “The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation is working on the restoration and beautification of the Frere Hall, Khaliq Dina Hall, KMC Building, and Denso Hall. These historic sites will remain open to the public,” he said.

Expressing his personal fondness for historical and public spaces, Wahab said he wanted these venues to host poetry sessions, discussions, musical evenings and other public events. “All public places in Karachi are a trust of its citizens,” he remarked.

Recalling the legacy of iconic artist Sadequain, who created masterpieces at the Frere Hall, he said that future generations could produce artists like Sadequain, Gulgee and Iqbal Mehdi provided that society fostered understanding, tolerance and mutual encouragement.

He urged the citizens to build a better future rather than remaining stuck in the past. “Pakistani youth are immensely talented; they only need encouragement and direction,” he said, adding that he wished to teach the CSS Corner students once a month, particularly on subjects such as law and public administration. He also welcomed opportunities for student interaction and feedback.

Saleem shared that the CSS Corner had been offering free education since December 2019, with admissions based solely on merit, unlike private academies charging Rs150,000 and Rs200,000 for similar courses. Over 60 students from the initiative had already passed the CSS examination and were now serving in various government positions.

He announced the commencement of a new course for aspirants targeting the 2026 exams. As part of the programme, students would benefit from lectures delivered by federal and provincial secretaries, senior bureaucrats, professors and educationists.

The CSS Corner operates in Frere Hall, Markaz Islami Ayesha Manzil, and Model Library Korangi No 5. Speaking at the event, Sultana encouraged the students to stay focused and committed to their goals. “Life is not just about living for oneself, but for others,” she said.

Mustafa welcomed the new batch and advised the students to maximise this ‘golden opportunity’ to shape their futures. The event concluded with Wahab formally launching the CSS Corner’s official website.