The long-standing Central Superior Services (CSS) examination system is on the verge of a major transformation as the high-level Civil Service Reforms Committee finalizes recommendations for structural changes.
According to a national daily, citing sources, the committee has completed discussions on key aspects, including a proposal to replace the existing CSS exam with a more specialized framework.
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The reforms aim to introduce a cluster-based system, ensuring professionals are recruited for relevant technical roles instead of the current generalized allocation.
A senior official involved in the process confirmed that the proposed changes would soon be presented to the federal cabinet for approval. With only one meeting left, the committee is also set to conclude deliberations on compensation and pension structures before submitting the final report.
The shift to a cluster-based model is intended to streamline recruitment by aligning candidates’ academic backgrounds with their assigned roles. Under the existing system, a uniform examination is used to allocate candidates to different service groups, often placing professionals in fields unrelated to their qualifications.
Government officials argue that this outdated approach has led to inefficiencies in governance. The proposed system would categorize services into distinct groups, requiring candidates to qualify in exams tailored to their respective fields.
The push for reform gained momentum after Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal stressed the need for restructuring during a cabinet meeting. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the formation of a committee to design a new civil service framework that enhances governance and service delivery.