A recent job advertisement by the federal government has ignited a crucial conversation about the need to modernize Pakistan's administrative framework. The advertisement sought a Naib Qasid, outlining responsibilities that many argue belong to a bygone era of governance.
The Advertisement That Revealed an Outdated System
The advertised position listed duties primarily involving manual and personal tasks. These included carrying files from one office to another, serving refreshments to officials and guests, guiding visitors within the building, and handling basic office upkeep. This job description serves as a stark reminder of an administrative model inherited from the colonial past, which many nations have long since abandoned in favor of more structured and professional systems.
Global Shift Towards Professional Office Roles
Internationally, the trend has moved decisively away from such roles. In developed democracies like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada, junior administrative staff are entrusted with structured functions that contribute directly to organizational efficiency. Their roles focus on data entry, records management, and coordinated office support, emphasizing skill development and dignity of work.
Even several countries in Africa and the Middle East have successfully transitioned towards professional office support roles that require specific training and offer clear career progression. This shift underscores a global consensus on creating efficient, respectful, and modern work environments within the public sector.
A Call for Reform in Pakistan's Governance
While Pakistan has made significant strides in various institutional reforms, certain job categories, like that of the Naib Qasid, remain firmly rooted in tradition rather than contemporary needs. Modernizing these positions is not merely about changing a title; it is about elevating the status of junior employees and instilling values of professionalism.
Revisiting these legacy roles and aligning them with a forward-looking governance framework is essential. It would reinforce national progress and reflect the aspirations of an independent nation aiming for excellence in public service. As noted by Bilal Younus Shaikh from Sindh, it is time to phase out outdated administrative posts and build a system that values efficiency and professional growth for all its workers.
The persistence of such advertisements highlights a critical gap between reform rhetoric and ground-level implementation. A conscious effort to redesign these roles can enhance organizational productivity and provide government employees with more meaningful and skill-based career paths, ultimately strengthening the entire machinery of the state.
