'CSS exam structure to be revised next year'

Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Azam Nazeer Tarar, has announced that changes in the Central Superior Services (CSS) examination system are expected next year as the government moves toward educational and administrative reforms.

Speaking during a Senate session on Tuesday, Tarar highlighted the growing number of students in Pakistan opting for the Cambridge education system, including O and A Levels, and said the government aims to ensure an equal playing field for all CSS candidates.

“It is our responsibility to implement a fair and standardised examination system across the country,” he said.

He revealed that a high-level committee, led by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, has been working on revising the CSS exam structure. The committee has already completed most of its review, and its final recommendations are expected to shape the upcoming reforms.

The CSS examination, a highly competitive recruitment process for Pakistan’s civil services, has long been criticised for being inaccessible to candidates from diverse educational backgrounds.

Many have argued that the current format favours certain education systems while placing others at a disadvantage. The government’s initiative aims to create a more level playing field by addressing these concerns.

Tarar confirmed that the committee has been thoroughly assessing the exam’s existing structure, subject selection criteria, and evaluation process.

“The objective is to introduce a system that accommodates all students fairly, regardless of their academic background,” he stated.

The Senate session, presided over by Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, also saw debates on various governance matters. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussions on parliamentary privileges and procedural disputes. Opposition lawmakers raised concerns over legislative processes, particularly regarding voting procedures on a bill.

Senator Mohsin Aziz expressed frustration over the handling of parliamentary affairs, while the law minister defended the government’s approach, stating that all procedures were followed according to constitutional guidelines. Despite tensions, Gilani assured lawmakers that parliamentary protocols would be upheld and addressed any concerns regarding legislative transparency.

While the government has yet to announce specific details about the upcoming CSS exam changes, officials suggest that the reforms will be finalised in the coming months.

The proposed changes are expected to modernise the examination process, ensuring that it reflects contemporary educational standards and fosters inclusivity in Pakistan’s bureaucratic recruitment system.

With the final report from Ahsan Iqbal’s committee pending, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant government bodies will be consulted before implementing the new framework. If approved, the revised CSS exam structure could come into effect as early as 2026.