Committed leadership, effective model essential for progressive Pakistan: Prof. Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman 

Islamabad (Web Desk): Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman, Chairman Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), has said that Pakistan’s path to genuine progress depends on committed leadership and a practical development model.

Addressing the sixth Rectors Conference in Islamabad, he said that explained that the goal of the conference is to give vice-chancellors from all over the country a common space where they can connect, exchange successful experiences and openly discuss the issues their institutions face.

Dr Rehman shared that the conference has been held regularly for the last four years. He recalled that the previous year’s gathering had placed special emphasis on character-building, though the results so far have not met expectations.

He added that unemployment, insecurity and shrinking development sectors are well-known national challenges, and Pakistan still lags behind in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as in health and education indicators

He underlined that the country needs a committed leadership and an effective model to move forward. 
Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said, after reviewing various global examples, the most comprehensive and inspiring model remains the life and guidance of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), whose approach fostered reform through wisdom, encouragement and peace—not through force.

Turning to the education sector, the APSUP chairman suggested that the entire system’s oversight should be entrusted to one responsible individual, supported by an independent auditor to improve transparency and performance.

He stressed that institutions must be allowed to function autonomously and that stakeholders should be part of the decision-making process, noting that reforms cannot truly take hold when policies are made behind closed doors.

On national development, Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman stated that toxic language, violence or destructive acts like burning banks will take the country nowhere.

Instead, he called for serious investment in science, technology and research, saying that innovation is key to future progress.

The APSUP mentioned that the planned Power Technology Park is designed to strengthen cooperation between researchers and industry, but its success will depend on consistent support and encouragement.