DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Former chief minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Tuesday called for reforms in the country’s federal and provincial governance structures, saying the existing system required correction as Pakistan was burdened by debt and its self-reliance and sovereignty had been weakened.
He said the country needed greater unity, awareness and a collective sense of responsibility to address its problems.
Mr Gandapur was speaking as the chief guest at the oath-taking ceremony of theEducationCoordination Council, Dera, held at Government Higher Secondary School No 2.
The council represents teachers’ organisations from across the district.
He also criticised the performance of the district accounts office, saying public institutions and their officials must perform their duties honestly and efficiently to resolve the problems of citizens and government employees.
Referring to complaints regarding delays in official work, he said he had received reports that matters at accounts officeswere not being processed on time and that, in some cases, work was allegedly delayed unless money was paid.
He said the district accounts officer was responsible for affairs within the office and stressed the need for immediate corrective measures to prevent government employees and other applicants from facing unnecessary difficulties.
He said those unable to perform their duties should vacate their positions. He also directed Dera Assistant Commissioner Dr Hamid Siddig to take notice of complaints concerning the district accounts office and take necessary steps to address them.
He said education and awareness were fundamental to the development of society, adding that teachers played a central role in shaping future generations.
He said political representatives were primarily responsible for legislation and addressing public issues, but a lack of unity and consensus had made the resolution of collective problems more difficult.
Mr Gandapur said successive generations had played their part in the country’s development, but Pakistan was now facing a heavy debt burden, which had affected its self-reliance and sovereignty.He said the country would have to address its problems through collective efforts and internal reforms.
Mr Gandapur said teachers’ organisations across the district had been broughttogetherunderthe Education Coordination Council, which would work to resolve teachers’ issues and improve the education system.
Chairman of the Dera Ismail Khan Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Prof Ehsanullah, secretary Dr Qayyum Nawaz, school heads, office-bearers of various teachers’ organisations and male and female teachers attended the ceremony.
During the event, a student of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Yarik, and a student of Government High School, Kotla Syedan, were awarded prizes for securing prominent positions in the matriculation examinations.
The council’s leadership said its purpose was not to target any individual or institution but to address teachers’ problems, improve the education system and effectively implement rules and regulations.
They said teachers’ organisations would continue to work collectively for their legitimate rights while also fulfilling their responsibilities towards students and promoting quality education.