ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary body on Tuesday demanded a detailed report on the impact of rightsizing, including the status of vacancies, departmental closures, and employee reassignments, in the science and technology ministry.

The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology convened at the Parliament House to review the ministry`s performance and addresskeyconcerns.

The meeting, chaired by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, was attended by Senators Husna Bano, Dr Afnanullah Khan, Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Muhammad Aslam Abro, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology and affiliated departments.

The panel emphasised the importance of transparency in these proceedings. Addressing concerns regarding the rightsizing in the ministry, Senator Kamil Ali Agha stressed that inefficiencies should not come at the cost of employees` livelihoods.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the ministry`s lack of a detailed briefing on the matter, he called for a clear policy to ensure that fair treatmentwas meted out to the employees.

The secretary, Sajid Baloch, assured the committee that all departments had been directed to address rightsizing and proposed that a formal proposal be developed for further discussion.

One of the primary issues discussed was the delay in issuing notifications for the nominations of senators Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari, Dost Muhammad Khan, Mir Dostain Khan Domki, and Muhammad Aslam Abro to various organisations under the ministry. The nominations, previously ratified by the committee, are currently awaiting the prime minister`s approval. Senator Agha urged that the matter be expedited without further delay.

The committee was also briefed on the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) and its role in facilitating international agreements with countries, like Kuwait and China, to create employment opportunities for Pakistani engineers.

Senator Agha inquired about contractor assessments and the hiring process for engineers, to which officials explained the varying requirements based on category and registration status.

In light of the decline in Pakistan`s textile industry, the chairperson suggested that efforts be made to ensure engineers find employment within the country. He urged the PEC to collaborate with industries and universities to provide specialised training for engineers to adapt to evolvingmarket demands.

Further discussions included the functions and performance of the Pal(istan Science Foundation (PSF) and the Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Center (PASTIC).

The committee members acknowledged PASTIC`s contributions, particularly its role in universities, and stressed the need for increased efficiency in artificial intelligence. The members suggested that the PSF expand its workforce by 40 per cent to enhance its outreach and impact.

The committee also reviewed irregularities in the appointment process for the head of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).

The recruitment process involved 50 candidates, with 42 shortlisted for interviews based on eligibility criteria.

The minister for Science and Technology personally chaired the interviews, and the final panel of three candidates was forwarded to the prime minister for a decision.

While the process within the ministry had concluded, the final decision remained pending.

Officials dismissed media reports alleging misconduct, stating that the high court`s observations on the matter had not yet led to a final ruling.

Kamil Ali Agha concluded the meeting by emphasising the importance of efficiency, transparency, and the promotion of science and technology for national progress.