KARACHI:
Just like any other sector, the private academic sector of Pakistan has procurement needs too. They need to ensure that they have the computers, the textbooks and any other materials they need to be successful. Maintained educational institutions have a duty to assure that they obtain the best value for their money. These institutions therefore need to follow a proper procurement process, whether an existing contract is coming to an end or a new good or service is required. However, there are some common mistakes that affect the procurement methods in the private academic sector of Pakistan.
Procurement in the private academic sector is done by multiple bodies, leading to a fragmented approach that makes it less efficient, less organised and generally more chaotic. Moreover, the private academic sector of Pakistan lacks highly qualified and experienced procurement professionals. There is a dire need to hire experienced people. The academic sector of Pakistan, either public or private, has a rather complex approval process due to which it takes a long time to procure goods and services and complete orders. In the case of procurement and re-procurement, not many people realise that market research is of utmost importance. Institutions should be aware of their needs and wants. They must exactly know the quality and quantity required, and estimate the cost carefully.
But regardless of the drawbacks, there is still room for improving procurement methodologies. Pakistan’s private educational institutions should consider which procurement option is best for their own institute rather than resorting to an archaic system. When a contract comes to an end, it is best to “re-procure” to make sure the product or service is still meeting your needs.
Furthermore, it is equally important to find the right supplier. Once this is done, communication becomes key. By keeping a record of all supplier interactions in one place, institutions can ensure a consistent oversight of all supplier relationships. This includes the expectation of services and the agreed payment terms for products and services.
If procurement professionals in the private academic sector and other public sector bodies could come together and develop better procurement practices that still remain in compliance with applicable laws and legal regulations, they will be able to save huge sums of money. For instance, rationalising the entire tendering process could make the procurement lifecycle shorter and could eventually improve the overall supply management system of the institution.
Hira Waris
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 8th, 2021.
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