Pakistan's future lies in strategy, not slogans, says Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman

Peshawar (Web Desk): Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman, Chairman Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), has said that nations that plan strategically for their future rise to prosperity, while Pakistan continues to grapple with systemic corruption and a fragile education system that hampers its progress.

He was speaking at a seminar, titled, "Pakistan 2030: Challenges, Imkanaat aur Nai Rahein" (Challenges, Possibilities and the Way Forward), organized by the APSUP at CECOS University, Peshawar on Thursday.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s 80-year journey, he lamented the rising levels of corruption and the deteriorating state of education, saying, “We created Pakistan in the name of Allah, but we have failed to protect it. This is the time to reflect on where we stand and where we want to go.”

The APSUP chairman highlighted that meaningful change always stems from the middle class. 
“If the middle class remains inactive, transformation is impossible. Each of us must begin with self-improvement to collectively reform our social and governance systems,” he asserted.

Drawing inspiration from the life of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman described the Holy Prophet (PBUH) the ultimate model of resilience and reform.

“The Holy Prophet (PBUH) faced societal evils with courage, endured hardships, and ultimately triumphed by conquering Makkah. We must follow this example by overcoming our own shortcomings,” he remarked.

He further criticized the growing culture of corruption, fraud, and deceit, describing it as the greatest obstacle to Pakistan’s progress.

“Our institutions are weak, and our governance model needs collective reform to curb corruption and strengthen the education system,” he said.

The APSUP chief noted that Pakistan currently has more than 600,000 schools spreading the light of knowledge.

“If we align our strategy in the right direction, these schools can play a pivotal role in national development,” he stated.

Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman hailed Punjab Group Chairman Mian Amer Mahmood as a true national hero, crediting him for establishing over 450 colleges and three leading universities that have significantly contributed to the country’s education sector.

The APSUP Chairman called upon the youth to take ownership of Pakistan’s future.

“Only 20 years remain before Pakistan marks its centenary. The educated youth must rise to shape the country’s destiny. Mian Amer Mahmood has provided a blueprint that can safeguard your future,” Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman asserted.