An expert from the Planning Commission of Pakistan has stressed the critical need for robust financial governance and stringent project oversight within public universities to ensure transparency, efficiency, and the accountable use of development funds.
According to a statement today, the guidance was provided during the third training session of the National Outreach Programme for Higher Education Management, held at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) on Wednesday. The event was organised in collaboration with the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE).
Dr. Gul Mohammad Laghari, Senior Chief for Science and Technology at the Planning Commission, conducted the session, delivering an in-depth briefing on public sector project planning and governance mechanisms pertinent to higher education organisations.
During his address, Dr. Laghari discussed the complete lifecycle of public sector projects, placing particular emphasis on the crucial stages of preparation and development, including the formulation of PC-I and PC-II documents.
He detailed the essential steps of project appraisal and approval, highlighting the importance of aligning development initiatives with both national priorities and institutional objectives.
The significance of strong monitoring and evaluation frameworks was also emphasised as a means to guarantee accountability throughout project implementation. Effective financial governance, he noted, demands continuous supervision, punctual reporting, and strict adherence to established regulatory procedures.
Participants were briefed on best practices for managing development funds, mitigating procedural delays, and reinforcing internal controls. The session underscored the necessity of evidence-based planning and outcome-oriented budgeting.
An interactive discussion allowed attendees to share practical challenges faced by universities in project execution, with the resource person offering counsel on improving compliance and governance standards.
The training concluded by asserting that strengthening institutional capacity in project management and financial governance is indispensable for the sustainable growth and effective utilisation of public resources in the higher education sector.