Lahore: Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman, Chairman of the Association of Private Sector Universities Pakistan (APSUP), has stressed that Punjab, being an excessively large province, cannot be effectively governed by one chief minister.
Speaking at a seminar organized by APSUP at Punjab University, Prof. Rehman noted that if the current governance structure had the potential to improve, it would have shown results over the past 75 years. However, he said, no significant progress has been achieved under the present arrangement.
The APSUP chief asserted that the formation of smaller provinces has now become essential to strengthen the governance system and ensure better administration.
He further expressed readiness for dialogue with those who oppose the idea of creating new provinces.
“Constructive discussion and openness to different viewpoints can help the country reach the most viable and beneficial solutions for its people,” Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said.
Praising Punjab Group Chair Mian Amer, who also advocates the creation of new provinces, the APSUP chief declared him a national hero for his remarkable contributions to education.
Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating attitudes in society, he remarked that today we live in an environment where students, teachers, and even religious scholars need to reform themselves.
Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said that the focus should not remain confined to education alone but must also extend to improving the character and conduct of the youth.
He pointed out the lack of teamwork among young people and cited the example of Independence Day celebrations, where many indulge in reckless acts such as removing silencer pipes from motorbikes instead of showing genuine patriotism.
Such behavior, he said, reflects a lack of awareness of the serious challenges facing the nation.
Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman noted that some of the world’s top universities, including Harvard, place significant emphasis on character building, and Pakistan must follow the same path.
Highlighting APSUP’s mission, he said the organization had taken up a noble cause and must continue its work with sincerity, passion, and dedication.
He reminded the audience that with the blessings of God, everything is possible, but national progress will only come when every individual works with honesty, commitment, and hard work. True success, he concluded, lies in character, sincerity, and relentless effort.
The event was attended by teachers, students, scholars, and people from diverse walks of life.