President Asif Ali Zardari was given a detailed briefing on the functioning, development plans and institutional requirements of Cadet College Petaro during a meeting held at the Chief Minister House, Karachi.
The briefing focused on progress made on decisions taken in earlier Board of Governors meetings and outlined key priorities for the institution’s continued development, alongside proposals to modernise academic delivery and expand its scope.
The President was briefed on progress regarding provision of financial assistance for pension arrears, installation of a 1.2 megawatt solar power plant, establishment of an ERP system and upgradation of academic and residential facilities, including ICT infrastructure and cadets’ mess arrangements. Measures relating to scholarships through an endowment fund, enhancement of government grant in aid and construction of a boundary wall to prevent encroachment were also reviewed.
The meeting also considered steps for ensuring long-term sustainability of the institution, including housing schemes and health insurance for employees, as well as the establishment of a model high school affiliated with the college. The President was informed that 50 per cent of the students belong to Sindh province while the remaining 50 per cent come from other parts of the country.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that education delivery should increasingly move towards digital platforms, with computers in classrooms. He emphasised that the syllabus should be aligned with international standards and encouraged the college to seek affiliation with a reputed international institution. He also underscored the importance of introducing agriculture as a subject and suggested engaging international teachers to help deliver education in line with global standards.
The President directed that a committee may be formed to examine the college’s moving towards Advanced HSC and Advanced SSC instead of routine Matric and Intermediate.
He described Cadet College Petaro as an institution close to his heart and acknowledged its contribution to the country. He noted that the college has produced leaders across diverse fields, including public service, the armed forces and civil administration, and continues to play an important role in shaping the character of young students. He also noted that Cadet College Petaro is his alma mater, recalling his personal association with the institution.
The President emphasised that further strengthening the institution would help produce well-rounded individuals equipped with values of discipline, integrity and responsibility. He stressed the importance of quality education as a foundation for socio-economic progress and called for continued focus on merit and character-building.
Highlighting the need for coordinated efforts, the President asked all stakeholders to extend full support for timely approval and implementation of the proposed initiatives. He reiterated the importance of sustained investment and collective commitment to ensure that the institution continues to serve as a centre of excellence.
The meeting was attended by Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister Sindh; Ms Faryal Talpur, MPA and President, Women Wing PPP; Dr Asim Hussain, Chancellor, Ziauddin University; Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Provincial Minister for Energy; Malik Asad Sikandar, Member National Assembly; Dr Sikandar Ali Shoro, Member Provincial Assembly; Chief Secretary Sindh; Commodore Faisal Iqbal Qazi, Principal, Cadet College Petaro; Secretary Finance; Secretary College Education; Deputy Commissioner Jamshoro along with other senior officials.